tergum

[ tur-guhm ]

noun

, Zoology.

, plural ter·ga [tur, -g, uh].

1. the dorsal surface of a body segment of an arthropod.

tergum

/ ˈtɜːɡəm /

noun

1. a cuticular plate covering the dorsal surface of a body segment of an arthropod Compare sternum

Derived Forms

• ˈtergal, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tergum¹

1820–30; < Latin: the back

Word History and Origins

Origin of tergum¹

C19: from Latin: the back

Example Sentences

The “tergal hypothesis” suggests that wings originated on the tergum — the top of the insect body wall — perhaps as gliding membranes.

From New York Times

Ter′gite, the tergum or back of one of the somites or segments of an arthropod, &c.—adj.

From Project Gutenberg

Somite of a Lobster, separated and viewed from in front. t, tergum; s, sternum; pl, pleuron.

From Project Gutenberg

A dorsal and a ventral plate are often distinguished, known respectively as the tergum and the sternum, and the tergum may overhang the insertion of the limb on each side as a free plate called the pleuron.

From Project Gutenberg

In the Achorutidae the head is forwardly directed, the tergum of the prothorax conspicuous, and the spring small or vestigial.

From Project Gutenberg