prothorax

[proh-thawr-aks, -thohr-]

noun, plural pro·tho·rax·es, pro·tho·ra·ces

[proh-thawr-uh-seez, -thohr-] /proʊˈθɔr əˌsiz, -ˈθoʊr-/.

the anterior division of the thorax of an insect, bearing the first pair of legs.

Origin of prothorax

From New Latin, dating back to 1820–30; see origin at pro-¹, thorax

Related formspro·tho·rac·ic

[proh-thaw-ras-ik, -thoh-] /ˌproʊ θɔˈræs ɪk, -θoʊ-/, adjective

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for prothorax

Historical Examples of prothorax

Umbones: two movable spines on the sides of prothorax in some Coleoptera.
Explanation of Terms Used in Entomology
John. B. Smith
We are next to say something upon the shape of the prothorax.
An Introduction to Entomology: Vol. III (of 4)
William Kirby
It consists of an upper and lower part—the prothorax and antepectus.
An Introduction to Entomology: Vol. III (of 4)
William Kirby
By the direction of the head, I mean its inclination with respect to the prothorax.
An Introduction to Entomology: Vol. III (of 4)
William Kirby
The head also is shorter and narrower, and the prothorax has rounded borders.
Handbook of Medical Entomology
William Albert Riley

British Dictionary definitions for prothorax

prothorax

noun plural -thoraxes or -thoraces (-ˈθɔːrəˌsiːz)

the first segment of the thorax of an insect, which bears the first pair of walking legsSee also mesothorax, metathorax

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012