thorax
- Pronunciation
- /THOHR-aks/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- thorax
- Plural
- thoraces
Definition
The middle section of an insect's body, located between the head and the abdomen, which bears the legs and wings.
Etymology
From Greek 'thōrax', meaning 'breastplate' or 'chest'.
Example
In beetles, the thorax is heavily sclerotized and provides protection as well as structural support for wing movement during flight.
Synonyms
- Midsection
Related Terms
- Head
- Abdomen
- Prothorax
- Mesothorax
- Metathorax
Usage Notes
The thorax is divided into three segments: the prothorax, mesothorax, and metathorax, each of which may bear a pair of legs and, in winged insects, the mesothorax and metathorax also bear the wings.