dorsum

noun

dor·​sum ˈdȯr-səm How to pronounce dorsum (audio)
plural dorsa ˈdȯr-sə How to pronounce dorsum (audio)
1
: the upper surface of an appendage or part
2
: back
especially : the entire dorsal surface of an animal

Examples of dorsum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web For example, that includes a thin dorsum, and a rotated and narrow tip. Essence, 3 Nov. 2023 Analyses of fur color and background environments suggest that the giant panda’s white face, nape, dorsum, flank, belly, and rump are adapted for crypsis against a snowy background, whereas its black shoulders and legs are adapted for crypsis in shade. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 6 Mar. 2017 Experiment 4 showed that holes of intermediate size are perceived to be larger with the tongue's tip than with its dorsum. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 18 Oct. 2017 To make his mate more receptive in between bouts, a male N. pilipes will spread silk over her dorsum, or back, in massage-like motions known as mate binding. National Geographic, 14 Feb. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dorsum.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dorsum was in 1615

Dictionary Entries Near dorsum

Cite this Entry

“Dorsum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dorsum. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

dorsum

noun
dor·​sum ˈdȯr-səm How to pronounce dorsum (audio)
plural dorsa -sə How to pronounce dorsum (audio)
1
: the upper surface of an appendage or part
2
: back sense 1a
especially : the entire dorsal surface of an animal

More from Merriam-Webster on dorsum

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