rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryanteriorToward the front
adjective

anterior

an-TEER-ee-er/ænˈtɪriər/

Situated ahead of something in position or order.

The diagram labels the anterior surface at the front of the body.

Side-view human anatomical silhouette facing right, front chest abdomen face side highlighted blue, arrow points toward body front; concise ANTERIOR label.
Etymology
anteriorLatinformer; more in front

Latin anterior is the comparative of ante, “before,” giving the idea “more in front.” The anatomical meaning applies that spatial comparison to the front of a body or structure.

In context

RegisteredNurseRN2:58
when we look at the anterior or front side of the ilium
Pelvis Hip Bones Anatomy (Os Coxae, Pelvic Girdle) - Ilium, Ischium, Pubis

More examples

  • The scan shows damage in an anterior region.
  • The scholar compares events anterior to the treaty.
  • An anterior section of the structure supports the entrance.

Similar words

front
The ordinary positional equivalent rather than the technical adjective.
prior
Concerns earlier time or order rather than bodily position.