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 See all Example Sentences for pectoral fin 

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

Word History

First Known Use

1715, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pectoral fin was in 1715

Dictionary Entries Near pectoral fin

Cite this Entry

“Pectoral fin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pectoral%20fin. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on pectoral fin

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