Antenna
- Pronunciation
- /an-TEN-uh/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Antenna
- Plural
- Antennae
Definition
A pair of long, thin sensory appendages located on the heads of insects and some arachnids, used primarily for sensing the environment.
Etymology
From Latin 'antenna', meaning 'sailyard' or 'yardarm', which refers to the ship's spar; the term was later adapted in biological contexts.
Example
The butterfly uses its antennae to detect floral scents and navigate towards nectar sources.
Synonyms
- Feelers
- Sensory appendages
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Antennae are highly specialized and can vary greatly in form and function between different species of insects and arachnids.