Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
dorsal
adjective
/ˈdɔːrsəl/
Definition
relating to the back or posterior part of an organism.
Examples
- Fish have dorsal fins that help them stabilize while swimming.
- The dorsal side of the turtle’s shell is usually covered with scutes.
- In many animals, the dorsal region plays a critical role in movement and protection.
Meaning
The term ‘dorsal’ is used primarily in biological contexts to refer to the upper side or back of an animal or plant.
Synonyms
- back
- posterior
- upper
- spinal
