# thorax

/ˈθɔɹæks/ (US) · /θˈɔːɹæks/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thorax
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the front part of an insect's body, or the middle part of a human's body between the neck and the waist.

For teachers: the anterior segment of an insect's body, or the middle section of the human torso between the neck and the pelvis.

## Examples

- The thorax of the beetle is very hard.
- Insects use their thorax to attach their wings and legs, allowing for complex movement.
- The thorax contains the heart and the primary respiratory organs in many arthropods, serving as a central hub for circulation and locomotion.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.