Pronunciation: [kˈɔːdə͡l] (IPA) 
The term "caudal" refers to the tail end of an animal or the lower part of the body. It is pronounced as /ˈkɔːdəl/ and spelled as "caudal" with a "c" in the beginning followed by "au" and "d," which represent the sound /ɔː/ and /d/ respectively. The next part of the word has the sound /əl/ which is represented by "a" and "l." The IPA phonetic transcription accurately depicts the sounds used in the pronunciation of "caudal."
Caudal is an adjective that is derived from the Latin term "cauda," meaning "tail." It is primarily used in anatomy and biology to describe characteristics or structures located in the posterior part of an organism, particularly in relation to the spine or the tail.
In anatomy, the term caudal refers to the direction that is opposite to the head or towards the posterior end of an organism. For example, in humans, the caudal region of the body includes the lower back, buttocks, and tailbone. In animals, caudal refers to the part of the body that extends beyond the trunk and includes the tail.
Caudal can also be used to describe structures or processes that are located or take place towards the hind part of an organism. For instance, in biology, the caudal fin refers to the tail fin of fishes, which assists in propulsion and stability in water. Additionally, the caudal vertebrae are the bones found at the tail end of the spine, providing flexibility and support to the tail.
Furthermore, caudal may be used metaphorically to describe something with a posterior position or function in relation to a particular system or organization. For instance, in economics, it may refer to financial transactions occurring towards the end of a fiscal year.
In summary, caudal is an adjective frequently used in anatomy and biology to describe the posterior or tail region of an organism, including its structures, processes, or directional movements.
Relating to any cauda, or anatomical structure resembling a tail.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Pert. to the tail of an animal, or the thread at the bottom of the seed of a plant.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "caudal" originates from the Latin word "cauda", which means "tail". "Caudal" is derived from the Latin term "caudalis", which refers to anything related to or resembling a tail.
