tentorium

noun

1. The framework of internal supports (a false endoskeleton) within an arthropod head, formed by ingrowths of the exoskeleton called apophyses.

   “In the female of Culex the tentoria arise in front of the border of the occipital foramen and ascend at an angle of twenty-five degrees with the floor of the head.”

2. The tentorium cerebelli, an extension of the dura mater that separates the cerebellum from the inferior portion of the occipital lobes.

   “Four dogs with intact tentoriums survived 6 weeks and 8 with sectioned tentoriums survived the same period of time.”