anterior

Definition

Located towards the front or head end of an organism, often referring to body parts or segments.

Etymology

From Latin 'anterior', comparative of 'ante', meaning 'before' or 'in front'.

Example

The anterior segment of the insect body includes the head, which houses the sensory organs.

Synonyms

• front
• forward

Related Terms

• posterior
• dorsal
• ventral

Usage Notes

The term 'anterior' is commonly used in describing the position of anatomical structures. In entomology and arachnology, it often pertains to body segmentation.