Posterior
pɒˈstɪəriər
Definitions
2 meaningsLocated behind or further back; at the rear.
pɒˈstɪəriər
Situated behind or at the back
The posterior surface of the bone is smooth.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're in a race. 'Posterior' describes the person behind you, or something at the back of the line. Like the posterior part of your chair is the part you lean against.
👶 For kids: The back part of something.
More Examples
The patient reported pain in the posterior region of the shoulder.
The posterior door of the house opened to the backyard.
How It's Used
"The posterior aspect of the leg is called the calf."
"The posterior exit of the building was locked."
The buttocks.
pɒˈstɪəriər
The buttocks
He sat on his posterior.
💡 Simply: Your 'posterior' is just a fancy way of saying your butt. Doctors might use this word.
👶 For kids: Your bottom!
More Examples
The injection was administered in the posterior.
The fall resulted in bruising on his posterior.
How It's Used
"The doctor examined the patient's posterior."
Synonyms
From Latin *posterior* ('following, coming after'), comparative of *post* ('after').
Used since the 16th century, particularly in scientific and anatomical contexts, to avoid ambiguity and maintain formality.
Memory tip
Think of your posterior (buttocks) – they're at the back!