[TA] a posterior and downward projection from the greater wing of the sphenoid bone on either side, located posterolateral to the foramen spinosum, so named for its proximity to this spine; gives attachment to the sphenomandibular ligament. SYN: spina ossis sphenoidalis [TA], alar spine, angular spine, processus spinosus, sphenoidal spine, spina angularis, spinous process of sphenoid.