This is an accepted version of this page A dimple, also called a gelasin (from Latin gelasinus, from Ancient Greek γελασῖνος (gelasînos)),[1] and a fovea buccalis,[2] is a small natural indentation in the flesh on a part of the human body, most notably in the cheek.

Numerous cultures believe that cheek dimples are a good luck charm that entices people who perceive them as physically attractive, but they are also associated with heroism and innocence, which has been included in literature for many centuries.

[4] Dimples are usually located on mobile tissue,[5][6] and are possibly caused by variations in the structure of the facial muscle known as zygomaticus major.

Specifically, the presence of a double or bifid zygomaticus major muscle may explain the formation of cheek dimples.

[12] Professor John McDonald, citing limited research, concluded that dimples have been mislabeled as genetically inherited and as a dominant trait.

[32] According to Candy Bites: The Science of Sweets, the dent in Junior Mints is based on this belief, arguing that a unilateral dimple is more attractive than bilateral.

[35] While it is not possible to give a definite explanation as to why dimples are attractive on a woman, researchers believe this "neutral feature" can be linked to paternity confidence, which is the ability of a man to easily distinguish his own offspring.

[41] The sentiments appear in fiction: authors have described dimples in their characters for centuries to show beauty,[42] especially in women, which has been seen as part of their sex appeal.

"[44] Scarlett O'Hara exploited her cheek dimples in Gone with the Wind when she was flirting to get her own way,[45][46] to the point where Rhett is implied to be aware of what she is doing.