Meaning: back
Root word: Latin dorsum
Roots with similar meanings:
- post- meaning “after, in back of”
Roots with opposite meanings:
- ventr- meaning “belly”
Roots that could be confused:
Notes:
Derived English Words
Commonly encountered words are in bold.
Dorsum – The back or upper surface of an animal or structure.
Dorsal – Relating to the back or upper side of an organism or structure.
Dorsiferous – Bearing or carrying on the back (often used in zoology or botany).
Dorsiflexion – The action of bending or flexing backward, such as moving the top of the foot toward the shin.
Dorsiflexor – A muscle that causes dorsiflexion, especially in the foot or hand.
Dorsigrade – Walking or moving on the back (a rare term, more common in descriptions of movement).
Dorsiventral – Having distinct dorsal (back) and ventral (belly) sides.
Dossier – Originally meaning “bundle of papers with a label on the back”; now refers to a collection of documents about a person or topic.
Endorse – To sign the back of a document, often to transfer ownership or to approve/support something.
Endorsee – A person who receives endorsement, often in the context of receiving a signed document or check.
Endorsement – The act of signing or approving something, especially to indicate support or transfer.
Reredos – An ornamental screen or backdrop behind an altar.
Other Uses
Dorsal fin- the fin on the back of a fish.
Latissimus dorsi – one of the major muscles of the back.
Links
List of Greek and Latin roots in English – Wikipedia
Other Roots Used in These Words
| Root | Meaning |
| fer- | bear, carry |
| flex- | bend |
| grad- | walk, step, go |
| ventr- | belly |
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