# risorius

> English word · Noun · IPA /ɹɪˈsɔː.ɹi.əs/

## Definitions
1. A narrow band of facial muscle arising from the fascia over the masseter and inserting into the tissues at the corner of the mouth, which it draws laterally, as is used when smiling.

## Etymology
Borrowed from Late Latin rīsōrius (“ridiculous, laughing”), clipping of mūsculus rīsōrius (“laughing muscle”).

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/risorius