Almondshaped

Almond-shaped is a descriptive term used to describe an outline or form that resembles the outline of an almond seed: an elongated oval with gently tapering ends and a smooth, convex edge. The term is qualitative rather than a precise geometric category; objects described as almond-shaped are typically roughly elliptical but with noticeable tapering at the ends.

In biology and neuroscience, almond-shaped often appears in reference to the amygdala, a paired region in the brain. The name amygdala comes from the Greek amygdale, meaning almond, reflecting the approximate shape of the structure in cross-section. While the real outline can vary among individuals, the general image is that of a compact, almond-like mass.

In human appearance and art, almond-shaped eyes describe an eye contour that is longer than it is wide, with a gentle taper toward the inner and outer corners. This descriptor is common in cosmetic writing, fashion, and anthropology, but it is a descriptive label rather than a strict anatomical category. Eye shapes vary widely, and the almond shape is only one of several common descriptions.

Etymology and usage: the term derives from the resemblance to the seed of the almond. It has been adopted across disciplines as a convenient shorthand for describing a particular elongated, pointed silhouette.