The posterior auricular nerve is a branch of the facial nerve that innervates muscles and skin on the back of the ear and scalp. However, it is important to know alternative words for this nerve, especially when communicating with medical professionals. Several synonms for the posterior auricular nerve include the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, the external auricular nerve, the auriculotemporal nerve, and the temporal branch of the facial nerve. Knowing these synonyms can also improve your understanding of anatomical terminology and enable you to better communicate with medical practitioners.