##  [Masseter Muscle](/masseter-muscle) 

  ##  [Masseter Muscle](https://health.quantumdictionary.io/masseter-muscle-0) 

  

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**Health & Life Sciences Dictionary**

 







 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

Definition

A paired superficial muscle of mastication that originates primarily from the zygomatic arch and zygomatic process of the maxilla and inserts on the lateral surface of the mandibular ramus and angle; its contraction elevates the mandible and generates the principal bite force for jaw closure. It is innervated by the mandibular (V3) branch of the trigeminal nerve.