Contralateral - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Contralateral refers to something occurring on or affecting the opposite side of the body or a structure. It is often used in anatomy and medicine to describe relationships between body parts.
Definition:
Relating to or situated on the opposite side of the body.
Synonyms:
opposite, opposing, crosswise
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
ipsilateral, unilateral
Common Collocations:
contralateral side, contralateral limb, contralateral movement
Derivatives:
contralaterally, contralaterality
Usage Tips:
Use "contralateral" to describe body parts or effects on the opposite side in medical or anatomical contexts.
Common Phrases:
contralateral reflex, contralateral control, contralateral hemiplegia
Etymology:
From Latin "contra-" (opposite) + "lateralis" (side), meaning "on the opposite side."
Examples:
- 1. The stroke affected her left arm and contralateral leg.
- 2. The brain's right hemisphere controls the contralateral left side of the body.
- 3. After the injury, he experienced weakness in his contralateral hand.
- 4. The surgeon examined the patient's contralateral knee for comparison.