Orbicularis Oculi

Time To Read

2–4 minutes

Date Last Modified


This muscle helps you wink and blink. This reminds me of a child’s poem called Wynken’, Blynken, and Nod

Orbicularis oculi muscle anatomy; closes eyelids, used for blinking/squinting.
Orbicularis oculi muscle anatomy; closes eyelids, used for blinking/squinting.
Photography, text, and labels by Rob Swatski, Assistant Professor of Biology, Harrisburg Area Community College – York Campus, York, PA.

Orbicularis Oculi Origin

Orbital Part: This portion of the muscle originates from the medial orbital margin and the medial palpebral ligament. The orbital part encircles the bony orbit of the eye. It is primarily responsible for forcefully closing the eyelids. This happens when squinting or tightly closing the eyes.

Palpebral Part: The palpebral part originates from the medial palpebral ligament and is located within the eyelids. This part allows the eyelids to close gently. It functions during blinking and when the eyes are closed lightly.

Lacrimal Part: The lacrimal part of the orbicularis oculi originates from the lacrimal bone, near the tear ducts. This part aids in the drainage of tears. It compresses the lacrimal sac, which facilitates the flow of tears across the surface of the eye.

Orbicularis Oculi Insertion

The muscle fibers of the orbicularis oculi insert into the skin surrounding the eye. They blend with the fibers of adjacent facial muscles. This insertion allows the muscle to affect the eyelids and surrounding tissues. It enables a wide range of movements and expressions

Orbicularis Oculi Actions

Closing the Eyelids

Facilitating Tear Drainage

Expressing Emotions

Interactive Materials

🩻 Draw on an Image

Use your mouse or finger to draw directly on the image. Change your highlighter color, undo or redo strokes, clear, or download your annotated image.









💡 Tip: Switch between draw mode and text mode. Click on the canvas to add text labels!

List of terms