lateral line

noun

1. the line, or system of lines, of sensory structures along the head and sides of fishes and amphibians, by which the animal is believed to detect water current and pressure changes and vibrations.

lateral line

1. A series of tubelike canals along the head and sides of fish and some amphibians by which vibrations, as from water currents, and changes in pressure are detected.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lateral line¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

This area, called the lateral line, is believed to be sensitive to mechanical stimuli of certain sorts.

From Project Gutenberg

Oblique lines, of the darker color of the back, running forward and downward to a little below the lateral line.

From Project Gutenberg

Below the lateral line are a number of small spots forming irregular lines running backward and upward.

From Project Gutenberg

It rapidly thins out posteriorly and also approaches closer and closer to the lateral line.

From Project Gutenberg

The tubular form is due to a hollowing out of the lateral line itself and a rearrangement of its cells.

From Project Gutenberg