dorsal

Everyday

1. (science) Dorsal means on or to do with the back of an animal or the upper side of something. tree →
2. The dorsal fin is the fin on the back of a fish, shark, dolphin or whale. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons on fish and sea animals, the dorsal fin helps them balance and steer. In stories and films, a dorsal fin above the water is the classic sign of a shark (though dolphins have them too). In medicine and body science, «dorsal» means back-side; the opposite is «ventral» (belly side).

Examples

• The shark's dorsal fin cut through the water. tree →
• Dolphins have a curved dorsal fin. tree →
• Label the dorsal fin on your fish diagram. tree →
• The dorsal side of a frog is green and spotty. tree →
• Some whales have a tiny dorsal fin. tree →
• The dorsal fin stops the fish from rolling over. tree →

Note

Science word, mostly in «dorsal fin». Opposite: ventral (the belly side). Trap: not every fin above the water is a shark — dolphins have dorsal fins too.