dorsal
- Pronunciation
- /DAWR-suhl/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- dorsal
- Plural
- dorsals
Definition
Relating to the upper or back side of an organism, commonly used to describe the back side of insects and arachnids.
Etymology
From Latin 'dorsalis', which derives from 'dorsum', meaning 'back'.
Example
The dorsal side of the beetle is often more colorful and patterned.
Synonyms
- Back
- Upper side
Related Terms
- Ventral
- Anterior
- Posterior
- Lateral
Usage Notes
The term 'dorsal' is often used in contrast to 'ventral', which refers to the underside or belly of an organism.