The human head, positioned atop the body, is a vital and complex structure that supports the face and securely encases the brain within its 22-bone skull. Typically weighing between 2.3 and 5 kilograms for most adults, it acts as the body's primary processing hub, housing crucial sensory organs like the eyes, ears, nose, and tongue, all of which relay essential information to the brain for rapid processing. An intricate network of carotid and vertebral arteries ensures its blood supply, while twelve pairs of cranial nerves, notably the trigeminal nerve, govern nervous control and provide sensation to the face.
Culturally, the face is the main feature distinguishing individuals, with the human brain being remarkably predisposed to facial recognition from infancy. While fictional portrayals often link large heads to high intelligence, neurobiological findings indicate only a slight correlation between overall brain size and general intelligence. Beyond its biological functions, the head is a rich source of metaphors in language, reflecting its central importance.