These are the larger of the two wing-like projections from the body of the sphenoid bone. These broad, flat processes are concave internally. They project anterolateral from the side and base of the bone inferior to the lesser wings. They articulate with the frontal, parietal, temporal, and zygomatic bones. The anterior edge of the wing forms the inferior border of the superior orbital fissure.

This name is from the resemblance of the boney processes to a large, wing-like shape. They are also referred to by the Latin term ala meaning wing.

Ala major ossis sphenoidalis