ventral

Definition

Relating to or situated on the underside or belly of an arthropod's body.

Etymology

From Latin 'ventralis', from 'venter' meaning 'belly' or 'abdomen'.

Example

The ventral side of the beetle revealed the intricate patterns of its exoskeleton.

Synonyms

• abdominal

Related Terms

• dorsal
• lateral
• anterior
• posterior

Usage Notes

The term 'ventral' is often used in contrast to 'dorsal', which refers to the upper or back side of the body.