pronotum
/prəʊˈnəʊt(ə)m/Entomology
noun
The dorsal sclerite or tergum of the prothorax of an insect, which in certain groups such as coleopterans (beetles) and orthopterans (crickets, etc.) forms a protective shield over the thorax.
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in William Shuckard (?1803–1868), entomologist. From German Pronotum from pro- + ancient Greek νῶτον. For note on parallel formations see mesonotum.