The zygomaticus is a muscle located in the face, primarily responsible for facial expressions. It consists of two parts: the zygomaticus major and zygomaticus minor. These muscles originate from the zygomatic bone and extend to the corners of the mouth, helping to elevate the lips when smiling. When the zygomaticus muscles contract, they pull the corners of the mouth upward, contributing to expressions of happiness and joy. This action is essential for non-verbal communication, as it helps convey emotions. The zygomaticus is often studied in fields like anatomy and psychology to understand facial expressions better.