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Biped: meaning, definitions and examples

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biped

 

[ ˈbaɪpɛd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

living organisms

A biped is an organism that walks primarily or exclusively on two legs. This term is often used to describe certain animals, including birds and humans, that have evolved to move upright. Bipedalism is a key feature in the evolution of hominins, allowing for free use of the hands and greater distance coverage during travel. The mechanics of bipedal movement differ among species, affecting agility and speed. Bipedalism has implications for locomotion, energy efficiency, and adaptation to various environments.

Synonyms

bipedal being, two-legged organism

Examples of usage

  • Humans are classified as bipeds because we walk on two legs.
  • Many birds are bipeds, using their legs for walking and running.
  • Bipedal locomotion evolved as a significant adaptation in some mammal species.
  • Researchers study bipedal movement to understand human evolution.
  • The skeletal structure of bipeds is different from that of quadrupeds.

Translations

Translations of the word "biped" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bípede

🇮🇳 द्विपाद

🇩🇪 Zweifüßer

🇮🇩 bipedal

🇺🇦 двоноге

🇵🇱 dwunożny

🇯🇵 二足歩行の

🇫🇷 bipède

🇪🇸 bípedo

🇹🇷 iki ayaklı

🇰🇷 2족 보행의

🇸🇦 ثنائي القوائم

🇨🇿 dvounohý

🇸🇰 dvojnožec

🇨🇳 双足动物

🇸🇮 dvojnog

🇮🇸 tvífætlingur

🇰🇿 екі аяқты

🇬🇪 ორ ფეხზე მდგომი

🇦🇿 ikiayaqlı

🇲🇽 bípedo

Etymology

The term 'biped' originates from the Latin word 'bipes,' which means 'two-footed.' The prefix 'bi-' means two, and 'ped' comes from 'pes,' meaning foot. The concept of bipedalism has been a significant area of study in anthropology and evolutionary biology, particularly in understanding human evolution. Early hominins developed bipedalism as they transitioned from forest-dwelling to more open environments, where walking on two legs provided advantages such as improved visibility and the ability to carry objects. The study of bipeds not only informs us about muscle and skeletal adaptations but also sheds light on social behaviors and habitats of various species over time.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,582 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.