posterior
Posterior (adj) means Located at or nearer the back of something, especially the body. Example: “The posterior part of the skull protects the brain stem.”
How to use posterior
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishToward the back or rear — of the body, an object, or (in statistics) a revised probability.
The opposite is anterior (toward the front), not 'prior' — prior relates to time, not position.
Word forms
more posterior comparative, posteriors plural, most posterior superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ part of the skull protects the brain stem.
Etymology
From Latin posterior, meaning 'that which comes after or behind,' the comparative form of posterus ('following').
Related words
Rhymes for posterior
See all rhymes for posterior →Frequently asked questions
What does “posterior” mean?
The word “posterior” means located at or nearer the back of something, especially the body. In plain terms, toward the back or rear — of the body, an object, or (in statistics) a revised probability.
How do you pronounce “posterior”?
“Posterior” is pronounced pos-TEER-ree-uh (/poʊˈstɪɹ.i.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “posterior” in a sentence?
Here is “posterior” used in a sentence: “The posterior part of the skull protects the brain stem.”
What part of speech is “posterior”?
Depending on how it is used, “posterior” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “posterior” come from?
The word “posterior” comes from Latin. From Latin posterior, meaning 'that which comes after or behind,' the comparative form of posterus ('following').
Is “posterior” a common word?
“Posterior” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “posterior” have?
“Posterior” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: located at or nearer the back of something, especially the body.