pectoral fin

noun

1. (in fishes) either of a pair of fins usually situated behind the head, one on each side, and corresponding to the forelimbs of higher vertebrates.

pectoral fin

noun

1. either of a pair of fins, situated just behind the head in fishes, that help to control the direction of movement during locomotion

Word History and Origins

Origin of pectoral fin¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

In an ethanol specimen, its pectoral fins look soft and ghostly, whereas the living larva sports flamboyant, spiky and spotted fins.

From Science News

Pectoral fin on a level with the eye and small; ventral under the center of the pectoral; caudal, slim and forked.

From Project Gutenberg

Dr. Traquair thinks that a flap or lappet-like projection behind the head may be a pectoral fin.

From Project Gutenberg

As to the presence of limbs, no trace of pectoral fin or anterior limb has been found.

From Project Gutenberg

These spines are really enormous dermal fin-rays; the pectoral fin-spine is articulated to the pectoral girdle.

From Project Gutenberg

Pectoral fin of an embryo of Scyllium stellare, magnified 16 diameters.

From Project Gutenberg