Caudal

/ˈkɔːdəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Relating to the tail or the posterior part of an organism.
The caudal end of the fish is where the tail fin is located.
Pertaining to the lower part of the body or the tail region in animals.
The caudal vertebrae are important for the movement of the tail in some mammals.
In anatomical terms, describing the direction towards the tail or rear.
The surgeon made an incision in the caudal region of the abdomen.

Etymology

Late Latin 'caudalis', from 'cauda' meaning 'tail'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

caudal fin:
The tail fin of a fish, responsible for propulsion in water.
caudal vertebrae:
The vertebrae at the tail end of the spine, typically found in vertebrates.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Used humorously to describe someone who is always at the back or last in a group.
He’s the caudal of the team, always bringing up the rear.
Used figuratively to describe something that is less important or secondary.
That’s just the caudal part of the project, not the main focus.