| Lesser auricular nerve | |
| Latin: | Nervus auricularis minor |
The lesser auricular nerve originates from the cervical plexus, composed of branches of spinal nerves C2 and C3.
Therefore, the "Great auricular nerve" is incorrectly named "Greater auricular nerve".[1]
The Great auricular nerve runs posteriorly to the ear, and is "greater," since it provides most of the innervation to the ear: the back of the ear, front of the ear and earlobe. The rest is provided by the auriculotemporal nerve, which supplies the skin anterior to the external auditory meatus.