Anterior

Definition

Pertaining to or located toward the front of the body; the leading end in the direction of normal locomotion. In bilaterally symmetrical arthropods, the anterior pole bears the mouthparts, eyes, and primary sensory appendages. Opposite of posterior.

Etymology

Latin anterior, comparative of ante 'before, in front'

Example

In a walking insect, the antennae arise from the anterior margin of the head capsule, while the cerci, if present, project from the posterior abdomen.

Synonyms

• cephalic (when specifically toward head)
• rostral

Related Terms

• Posterior
• Dorsal
• Ventral
• Proximal
• Distal
• cephalic
• rostral
• caudal

Usage Notes

Preferred over 'front' in technical descriptions. In elongate arthropods like centipedes or stick insects, 'anterior' is unambiguous, whereas 'upper' or 'forward' depend on body posture. Some specialists reserve 'cephalic' for structures specifically on or near the head, using 'anterior' for the general forward direction along the body axis.