# metasternum

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. Synonym of xiphoid process (“small cartilaginous extension to the lower part of the sternum”).
2. The ventral sclerite (or exoskeletal plate) of the metathorax of insects.

## Etymology
From meta- + sternum.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/metasternum