Dorsal

usgb/ˈdɔːrsl/
adjective

Related to the back side or top of an animal, plant or object.

The dorsal fin of a shark is the one you see when it is near the surface of the water.
Visual representation of "dorsal" - Related to the back side or top of an animal, plant or object.

Often appears as...

  • dorsal fin
  • dorsal surface

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "dorsal"
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Animal Orientation

Remember 'dorsal' indicates the top side of marine animals, like the side you'd see from above.

Illustration for Animal Orientation
Marine biologists track dolphins by their dorsal fins.
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Plant Position

'Dorsal' describes the part facing away from the stem in plants, akin to a back.

Illustration for Plant Position
The dorsal petals of an orchid are often very decorative.
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Object Top Side

For non-living objects, 'dorsal' is sometimes used metaphorically to denote the 'back' or 'upper' side.

Illustration for Object Top Side
The dorsal side of the leaf was covered in a fine layer of dust.
Visual representation of the word "Dorsal"

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