HETEROLATERAL Meaning and
Definition
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Heterolateral is an adjective used to describe a specific pattern or orientation where the structures or elements on one side of a central axis or point differ from those on the other side. The term is commonly used in anatomical, physiological, and biological contexts.
In anatomy, heterolateral refers to the arrangement of body parts or structures that are situated on opposite sides of the body. For instance, in humans, the limbs, such as arms and legs, are heterolateral, with one located on the left side and the other on the right side. This pattern of asymmetry is characteristic of many bilateral organisms, including animals and humans.
In physiology, heterolateral describes the functionality or connectivity of different areas or systems within the body. It signifies that certain actions or processes occur on one side of the body, while others occur on the opposite side. This distinction is particularly relevant in neurological studies, where interactions between various regions of the brain or spinal cord are investigated.
In a broader biological context, heterolateral is used to depict any situation where dissimilar components or characteristics are present on opposite sides or halves. It underscores the notion of asymmetry and indicates a lack of mirroring or uniformity between corresponding elements.
Overall, heterolateral denotes a state of dissimilarity or asymmetry between structures or functions on opposite sides or halves of an organism or any other relevant entity.
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On, or relating to, the opposite side.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HETEROLATERAL
- heterolateril
- heterolaterel
- heterolatercl
- heterolaterad
- heterolaterah
- heterolateran
- heterolateram
- h eterolateral
- he terolateral
- het erolateral
- hete rolateral
- heter olateral
- hetero lateral
- heterol ateral
- heterola teral
- heterolat eral
- heterolate ral
- heterolater al
- heterolatera l
Etymology of HETEROLATERAL
The word "heterolateral" is derived from two roots: "hetero-" and "lateral".
1) "Hetero-" is derived from the Greek word "heteros", which means "other" or "different". It is commonly used as a prefix in English to indicate contrast, difference, or diversity.
2) "Lateral" comes from the Latin word "lateralis", which means "of the side" or "from the side". It is related to "latus", meaning "side".
When these two roots are combined, "heterolateral" is formed, which suggests a contrast or difference between the sides or something occurring on different sides.
