Glossopharyngeal nerve:(mixed) The glossopharyngeal nerve, also known as the ninth cranial nerve, cranial nerve IX, or simply CN IX, is a cranial nerve that exits the brainstem from the sides of the upper medulla, just anterior (closer to the nose) to the vagus nerve. It controls Taste sensations from the rearmost third of the tongue. Also Sensations from the tonsils, back of the throat, middle ear, and the area behind the ear.