# dexter

/ˈdɛkstɝ/ (US) · /dˈɛkstɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dexter
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. on the right side

adjective · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

located on the right-hand side of something.

For teachers: situated on or relating to the right-hand side. In heraldry, this specifically refers to the right side from the perspective of the person carrying the shield, which appears as the left side to the viewer.

- The artist placed a small gold star in the dexter corner of the shield.
- The heraldic description specified a lion rampant in the dexter chief, contrasting with the floral patterns on the sinister side.

Usage: In heraldry, it is the opposite of 'sinister'.

### 2. a breed of cattle

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a small, strong type of cow that comes from Ireland.

For teachers: a member of a small, hardy breed of cattle originating in Ireland, valued for both milk and beef production.

- The farmer decided to raise Dexter cattle because they are easy to manage on small fields.
- The estate's livestock program focuses on heritage breeds, including a prize-winning herd of black Dexter cattle.

Usage: Usually capitalized when referring to the specific breed.

## Examples

- The knight painted a lion on the dexter side of his shield.
- In heraldic descriptions, the dexter side is always listed first because it is considered the more honorable position.
- The coat of arms features a silver falcon on the dexter half, contrasting with the deep crimson field on the sinister side.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.