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. See sternum
   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 spur probably answers to the basal point of the usually sub-rhomboidal tergum in Pollicipes and Scalpellum.

From Project Gutenberg

The scutum and tergum, with the few exceptions above stated, are articulated together at a large or open angle.

From Project Gutenberg

In some species of Pyrgoma, the tergum is of so irregular a shape as to defy description.

From Project Gutenberg

Scutum and tergum articulated together, or overlapping each other; each branchia composed of a single plicated fold.

From Project Gutenberg

The Tergum is broad, forming (the spur being excepted) an almost equilateral triangle.

From Project Gutenberg