lingually

Lingually is an English adverb derived from the adjective lingual, which itself comes from Latin lingualis, from lingua meaning tongue or language. The term denotes relation to the tongue, and it also appears in references to language, though the latter usage is uncommon outside technical or medical contexts.

In medical and dental contexts, lingually describes direction or position toward the tongue. The lingual surface of a tooth faces the tongue, opposite to buccal (toward the cheek) or labial (toward the lips). Clinicians may describe restorations, implants, or appliances as placed lingually to minimize visibility or occlusal interference. The term can also denote actions performed on or toward the tongue in surgical or procedural notes.

In discussions of language, lingually is rare; linguistically is preferred when referring to language or its properties.

Etymology: from Latin lingua meaning tongue or language, via lingualis and the English adverbial suffix -ly.

See also: lingual, lingua, buccal, tongue, linguistics.