opistho-

1. a combining form meaning “back,” “behind,” “rear,” used in the formation of compound words.

   opisthograph.

Word History and Origins

Origin of opistho-¹

< Greek, combining form of ópisthen behind, at the back

Example Sentences

The contorted posture is so common in dinosaur fossils that it has its own name: opisthotonus, from the Greek “tonos,” meaning tightening, and “opistho,” behind.

From New York Times

Ventral surface of the anterior region of the opisthosoma, the first somite being pushed upwards and forwards so as to expose the subjacent structures. opistho 1, First somite of the opisthosoma; opistho 2, second do.; g, genital aperture; l, edges of the lamellae of the lung-books; m, stigmata of tergo-sternal muscles.

From Project Gutenberg

When To Use

What does opistho- mean?

Opistho- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “back,” “behind,” “rear.” It is used in some classical and scientific terms, including in zoology.Opistho- ultimately comes from the Greek ópisthen, meaning “behind” or “at the back.”