protocephalon

noun

pro·​to·​cephalon
¦prōt(ˌ)ō+
plural protocephala
1
: the part of an insect embryo that consists of the prostomium and the first postoral somite
2
: the primitive arthropod head corresponding to the sensory as distinguished from the feeding portion of the head of higher forms compare gnathothorax

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from prot- + cephalon

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Dictionary Entries Near protocephalon

Cite this Entry

“Protocephalon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/protocephalon. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

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