Head
- Pronunciation
- /hed/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Head
- Plural
- Heads
Definition
The anterior part of an insect or arachnid's body that contains the eyes, antennae, mouthparts, and brain.
Etymology
From Old English 'heafod', related to Dutch 'hoofd', and German 'Haupt', meaning 'top' or 'chief part'.
Example
The head of a dragonfly houses large compound eyes that provide almost 360-degree vision.
Synonyms
- Cephalon
Related Terms
- Antennae
- Mouthparts
- Compound eyes
- Ocelli
- Thorax
Usage Notes
In entomology, the head is specialized for various sensory functions, including vision, smell, and taste.