How Do You Spell METATHORAX?

Pronunciation: [mˌɛtəθˈɔːɹaks] (IPA)

Metathorax is a term that refers to part of an insect's body. It is pronounced /ˌmɛtəˈθɔːræks/, with the first syllable "met" as in "metal" and the "a" in "tha" pronounced like the "a" in "father". The "x" at the end is pronounced like a "ks" sound. The word is spelled using the prefix "meta-", which means "after" or "behind", and "thorax", which refers to the middle section of an insect's body. Together, they form the region that follows the insect's main thorax.

METATHORAX Meaning and Definition

1. Metathorax is a term used in entomology to refer to the third and last segment of the insect's thorax, which is the middle region of its body. The anatomy of insects typically consists of three main parts: the head, the thorax, and the abdomen. The thorax is divided into three segments: the prothorax, the mesothorax, and the metathorax.

   The metathorax is located at the posterior part of the thorax, following the mesothorax. It is commonly known as the hindmost or rear segment, and it is responsible for connecting the middle part of the body to the abdomen. In terms of function, the metathorax plays a significant role in locomotion and the coordination of movement.

   In insects with functional wings, such as beetles, bees, and butterflies, the metathorax is the site of attachment for the hind wings. It provides support, stability, and rhythmic motion during flight. Additionally, the metathorax also houses various essential muscles that enable the insect to move its hindlegs in a coordinated manner, allowing for walking, jumping, or swimming, depending on the insect species.

   Understanding the structure and function of the metathorax is crucial for entomological research, as it aids scientists in studying and classifying different insect species.

2. In insects, the third and last segment of the thorax-the second being called mesothorax.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for METATHORAX

• Metallthorax
• Metatothorax
• Metathrai
• Medathrax

Etymology of METATHORAX

The word "metathorax" is derived from two ancient Greek words: "meta-" meaning "after" or "beyond" and "thōrax" meaning "breastplate" or "chest".

In entomology, the thorax is the anatomical division of an insect's body between the head and the abdomen. It is composed of three segments: the prothorax, mesothorax, and metathorax. The metathorax is the posterior or hindmost segment of the thorax, and it usually bears the third pair of legs in insects.

The term "metathorax" was coined by combining the Greek root "meta-" to indicate its positioning after the preceding segments and "thōrax" to describe its chest-like structure. This formation accurately describes the anatomical location and function of this body part in insects.

Plural form of METATHORAX is METATHORACES OR METATHORAXES