barbilla

Barbilla is the Spanish term for the chin, the forward-facing part of the lower face. In humans it corresponds to the mental region of the mandible and is formed by the mental protuberance, where the two halves of the mandible fuse at the mandibular symphysis. The barbilla sits below the lower lip and above the neck, and its shape influences the overall facial profile.

Etymology and usage: the word barbilla derives from barba, meaning beard, with the diminutive suffix -illa, reflecting its association with the lower facial region where facial hair can grow. Barbilla is a common everyday term. Mentón is a more formal or anatomical synonym used in some contexts, while barbilla is widely used in colloquial speech and general references.

Medical and cosmetic context: the size and shape of the barbilla are considered in facial analysis and cosmetic procedures. Techniques such as genioplasty (genioplastia) or mentoplastia are used to augment, reduce, or reshape the chin to alter facial balance and harmony.

Regional usage: barbilla is understood across Spanish-speaking countries, though preferences vary. In some regional varieties, barbilla specifically refers to the chin itself and its projection, while mentón may be favored in formal or anatomical descriptions.

See also: chin.