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Dictionary definition of anterior

Positioned or located towards the front of something or someone.
"The anterior part of the brain controls important cognitive functions."

Detailed meaning of anterior

In anatomy, the term "anterior" is used to refer to the front side of the body, or the opposite of posterior which refers to the back side of the body. For example, the anterior region of the human body includes the chest, the abdomen, and the head.

In biology and botany, "anterior" is used to describe the front end of an organism, for example, the anterior end of a worm, or the anterior side of a leaf.

In addition, "anterior" can also refer to something that comes before something else, in a sequence of events, or in a logical or chronological order. For example, the anterior events of a war would refer to the events that happened before the end of the war.

In general, "anterior" is a term that is used to describe the front or forward position of something, whether it's a body part, an organism, or a sequence of events. It is used as an antonym of "posterior" which refers to the back or rear position.

Example sentences containing anterior

1. The anterior chamber of the eye plays a role in controlling fluid pressure.
2. In human anatomy, the heart is anterior to the spine.
3. The sculpture had a detailed anterior surface but was flat on the back.
4. The car's anterior lights were damaged in the accident.
5. His anterior approach to the problem yielded an innovative solution.
6. The anterior wall of the building featured an elaborate mural.

History and etymology of anterior

The adjective 'anterior' has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'anterior,' which is the comparative form of 'ante,' meaning 'before' or 'in front of.' The suffix '-ior' in Latin is often used to form comparative adjectives, indicating a comparison of degree. Therefore, the etymology of 'anterior' essentially conveys the idea of something being situated in a position before or in front of something else. This Latin origin aptly captures the meaning of the adjective, describing objects or body parts that are located towards the front of a given entity or organism, emphasizing their forward positioning or priority in relation to other elements.

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Further usage examples of anterior

1. The anterior teeth are primarily used for cutting food.
2. He suffered an injury to the anterior part of his knee.
3. The anterior fins of the fish help it maintain balance.
4. The anterior ventricles of the brain are crucial for certain functions.
5. His anterior focus in the discussion left out important background.
6. In the aircraft, the anterior section is reserved for first-class passengers.
7. The anterior rooms in the mansion had a spectacular ocean view.
8. Her anterior perspective in the research targeted prevention over cure.
9. The anterior edge of the blade is sharper than the posterior one.
10. The bug has an anterior horn that's used for defense.
11. The anterior position of the monument made it highly visible.
12. An MRI revealed damage to the anterior lobe of his brain.
13. The anterior compartment of the car held the engine and other mechanisms.
14. The anterior entrance to the museum is through the main lobby.
15. The hotel's anterior design was modern, contrasting the vintage interior.
16. The athlete suffered from anterior ankle pain during the race.
17. The anterior part of the stage was illuminated by bright lights.
18. He was seated in the anterior section of the lecture hall.
19. The anterior petals of the flower were tinged with pink hues.
20. The spacecraft's anterior thrusters were used for precise maneuvers.
21. On ships, the anterior deck is often called the "foredeck."
22. The painting had an intriguing detail on the anterior corner.
23. In the blueprint, the anterior rooms received more natural light.
24. The anterior seat of the roller coaster offers the best views.