1. plural of palatine; bones forming part of the roof of the mouth
Usage: anatomy
2. plural of palatine; high officials of a royal court or palace
Usage: historical

Examples

• The palatines form part of the hard palate in the mouth.
• Damage to the palatines can affect speech and swallowing.
• The medieval palatines held significant power in the kingdom.
• Royal palatines advised the king on matters of state.
• The anatomist pointed out the palatines on the skull model.
• Historical records mention the palatines’ influence at court.