Which muscle of mastication does NOT elevate (close) the mandible?

The lateral (external) pterygoid protrudes and depresses the mandible and produces lateral movements; it does not elevate. The masseter, temporalis, and medial pterygoid are the elevators that close the jaw.Other options: The masseter, temporalis, and medial pterygoid all elevate the mandible.Key exam takeaway: Elevators = masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid; the lateral pterygoid opens/protrudes ('Lateral Lowers').