Orbicularis oculi

Definition

The orbicularis oculi is a circular muscle that surrounds the eye socket, responsible for enabling the eyelid to close and open. It plays a critical role in facial expressions such as blinking and squinting.

Related terms

Blink Reflex: An automatic, rapid closing and opening of the eyelid that protects the eye from foreign bodies and bright lights.

Facial Muscles: A group of skeletal muscles under voluntary control that are used for expressing emotions through facial expressions.

Levator Palpebrae Superioris: The muscle responsible for lifting the upper eyelid, aiding in keeping the eye open