pelvic fin

noun

: one of the paired fins of a fish that are homologous with the hind limbs of a quadruped

Examples of pelvic fin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hook-like projections on their pectoral and pelvic fins function like Velcro, enabling them to grip slippery rock surfaces even under strong water current. Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2026 The Secret to Climbing Is in the Fins The fish possess hook-like projections on their pectoral and pelvic fins that function like Velcro, enabling them to grip slippery rock surfaces under strong water currents. Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026 To achieve their audacious goals, the fish use hook-like growths on the undersides of both their pectoral and pelvic fins to push themselves upward. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 Apr. 2026 Claspers are modified pelvic fins capable of transferring sperm. Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 23 Sep. 2025 For instance, the Chilean sharks had longer heads and smaller pelvic fins relative to their total body length. Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025 These remarkable animals can use their pectoral and pelvic fins to shuffle across tidal flats and coral reefs exposed during low tides. Scott Travers, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pelvic fin was in 1882

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Cite this Entry

“Pelvic fin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pelvic%20fin. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

pelvic fin

noun
: either of a pair of fins of a fish that correspond to the hind limbs of a four-footed animal compare pectoral fin
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