What is the name for the part of the skull that encloses the brain?

The cranium is the part of the skull that encloses and protects the brain. It serves as a bony structure that not only provides protection against physical injury but also supports the shape and structure of the head. Within the cranium, there are several bones that fuse together over time to create a rigid case. This protection is critical for the brain, as it is the control center of the nervous system.

The other options represent different structures in the skull but do not fulfill the role of enclosing the brain. For instance, the mandible is the lower jawbone, and the maxilla refers to the upper jawbone. The term "cruciate" does not pertain to any part of the skull but rather relates to specific anatomical structures, often in the context of ligaments or cross-shaped structures in the body, particularly in the knees. Thus, the cranium is specifically defined by its function and structure in safeguarding the brain.