prothorax

[ proh-thawr-aks, -thohr- ]

noun

, plural pro·tho·rax·es, pro·tho·ra·ces [proh-, thawr, -, uh, -seez, -, thohr, -].

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

prothorax

/ prəʊˈθɔːræks /

noun

1. the first segment of the thorax of an insect, which bears the first pair of walking legs See also mesothorax metathorax

Other Words From

• pro·tho·rac·ic [proh-thaw-, ras, -ik, -thoh-], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of prothorax¹

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

Example Sentences

Magnified. b, spiracle on prothorax; c, protruded head region; d, tail-end with functional spiracles; e, f, head region with mouth hooks protruded; g, hooks retracted; h, eggs.

From Project Gutenberg

As in the true Mantis, the prothorax of these insects is greatly elongated and the first pair of legs are fitted for grasping.

From Project Gutenberg

For, commencing on the level of the beach, the usual type is broad, flat, more or less opake, with the prothorax almost impunctate, and the elytra soldered together.

From Project Gutenberg

The body is long and cylindrical, consisting of thirteen segments; the head is armed with powerful jaws; the three following segments, the future prothorax, mesothorax, and metathorax, each bears a pair of simple articulated legs.

From Project Gutenberg

Anatomically the thorax is divided into three parts—the prothorax, the mesathorax, and the metathorax; but the lines of division between these parts are not easily seen without denuding the skin of its hairy covering.

From Project Gutenberg