antenna
UK: ænˈten.ə | US: ænˈten.ə
n. a slender, flexible appendage on the head of insects or crustaceans, used for sensing
n. a metal rod or wire used to transmit or receive radio waves
The word "antenna" originates from Latin, where it originally meant "sail yard" (a horizontal spar on a ship). It was later adopted in zoology to describe the sensory appendages of insects, likely due to their projecting, rod-like shape. In the 20th century, it was repurposed in radio technology to describe transmitting/receiving rods, mirroring the physical resemblance to insect antennae. The Latin root "ante" (before) hints at the forward-positioned nature of these structures.
The butterfly cleaned its antennae with its front legs.
The radio station installed a new antenna for better signal coverage.
Scientists study insect antennae to understand their sensory mechanisms.
The old TV antenna on the roof was damaged in the storm.
His car’s antenna snapped off in the automatic car wash.