dorsum

noun

dor·​sum ˈdȯr-səm 

plural dorsa ˈdȯr-sə 

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

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

dorsum

noun

dor·​sum ˈdȯr-səm 

plural dorsa -sə 

1

: the upper surface of an appendage or part

2

: back sense 1a

especially : the entire dorsal surface of an animal