cheekbone
(CHEEK-bone)
One of a pair of bones on each upper side of the face that forms the cheek and part of the eye socket. The cheekbones help give shape and structure to the face and are connected to the jaw and bones near the ears, forehead, and skull. They protect the nerves and blood vessels that run through the face and provide an attachment for muscles that help the jaw move. Also called zygomatic bone.