pectoral fin

noun

: either of the fins of a fish that correspond to the forelimbs of a quadruped

Examples of pectoral fin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, larger bodies require more energy to move, reinforcing the selection for higher pectoral fin aspect ratios. —Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

The other study examines the genetics that allowed the fish to repurpose pectoral fins into legs. —Gary Stix, Scientific American, 26 Sep. 2024

For instance, their lobed pectoral fins, which are thought to be precursors to the limbs of terrestrial vertebrates, are well-adapted for maneuvering in deep, complex underwater environments. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024

Instead, Sharp and the others went from dolphin to dolphin, rolling those that were on their sides onto their bellies and then hand-digging the sand out from beneath the dolphins’ nine-inch pectoral fins so the appendages wouldn’t dislocate. —Jayme Moye, Outside Online, 19 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pectoral fin

noun

: either of a pair of fins of a fish that correspond to the front limbs of a four-footed animal compare pelvic fin