Masseter

Definition

The masseter is a thick, rectangular muscle located at the angle of the jaw, crucial for chewing by elevating the mandible (lower jaw) to close the mouth. It is one of the strongest muscles in the human body relative to its size.

Related terms

Temporalis: A fan-shaped muscle on each side of the head that assists in elevating the mandible and plays a key role in chewing.

Mandible:

The lower jawbone, which is moved by muscles including the masseter for chewing and talking.

Mastication:

The process of chewing food in preparation for swallowing and digestion, facilitated by muscles like the masseter