Occiput
- Pronunciation
- /OCK-si-put/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Occiput
- Plural
- Occiputs
Definition
The posterior part of the head or skull, often referring specifically to the back of an insect's head.
Etymology
From Latin 'occiput', derived from 'ob' meaning 'against' and 'caput' meaning 'head'.
Example
The occiput of the beetle was clearly wider than that of the comparable species.
Synonyms
- Back of the head
Related Terms
- vertex
- Frons
- Gena
- Insect head
Usage Notes
The term 'occiput' is often used in detailed descriptions of insect morphology, particularly in taxonomical studies.