Definition of retrorse in English:
retrorse
adjective rɪˈtrɔːsrəˈtrɔrs
Biology Turned or pointing backwards.
Example sentencesExamples
- In fish, the retrorse (backward) inclination of the myomeres forms a precursor of the differentiation between a deep and a superficial musculature of the trunk.
- As the bee's proboscis is inserted into the flower it pushes past the retrorse anthers to the nectar at the base of the tube.
Origin
Early 19th century: from Latin retrorsus, contraction of retroversus, from retro 'backwards' + versus 'turned' (past participle of vertere).
Definition of retrorse in US English:
retrorse
adjectiverəˈtrɔrsrəˈtrôrs
Biology Turned or pointing backward.
Example sentencesExamples
- In fish, the retrorse (backward) inclination of the myomeres forms a precursor of the differentiation between a deep and a superficial musculature of the trunk.
- As the bee's proboscis is inserted into the flower it pushes past the retrorse anthers to the nectar at the base of the tube.
Origin
Early 19th century: from Latin retrorsus, contraction of retroversus, from retro ‘backwards’ + versus ‘turned’ (past participle of vertere).