This canal transmits the hypoglossal nerve, cranial nerve XII, from the medulla oblongata through the occipital bone to the muscles of the tongue. It is situated immediately superior to the occipital condyles in the thick column of bone that supports the condyles.

Hypoglossal arises from the Greek hypo meaning below and glossa for tongue. Canal is from the Latin canalis meaning a tube or channel.

Canalis nervi hypoglossi