dorsale

dorsal

adjective dor-SAH-leh Rare

Origin: Latin 'dorsalis', from 'dorsum' (back)

Also means

spinal

Usage Note

Dorsale is an anatomical and geographical adjective meaning 'of or relating to the back (dorsum)'. In anatomy: colonna dorsale (dorsal/spinal column). In geography: dorsale appenninica (Apennine ridge). It is invariable for gender: il muscolo dorsale / la pinna dorsale. As a feminine noun, la dorsale refers to a mountain ridge or oceanic ridge.

Examples

"Il nuotatore ha i muscoli dorsali ben sviluppati."

Natural Translation

The swimmer has well-developed dorsal muscles.

Related Words

Explore Italian by topic

ItalianNow

You're Welcome in Italian: 8 Ways Beyond Prego

You're welcome in Italian is more than prego: say figurati to friends, si figuri to strangers, di niente, non c'è di che, or grazie a te. Pick the right one.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Essential Italian Travel Phrases (With Vorrei)

Vorrei means I would like — the politest, most useful Italian travel phrase. Learn five reusable frames to order, ask prices, and find your way in Italy.

June 5, 2026 5 min read

ItalianNow

Italian False Friends: 20 Words That Trick You

Italian false friends like preservativo, parenti, and caldo mean the opposite of what English speakers expect. Here are 20 ranked by how badly they bite.

June 5, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

C'è vs Ci Sono: There Is/Are in Italian

C'è for one thing, ci sono for many — that's the rule. Master Italian's there is/there are with c'era, ci sarà, è vs c'è, and non c'è nessuno.

June 9, 2026 5 min read