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Chela Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chela

[ˈkiːlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

crustacean anatomy

A chela is a pincer-like organ found in certain arthropods, such as lobsters and crabs. It is typically used for grasping and manipulating objects or food.

Synonyms

claw, crusher, pincer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chela

Used primarily in scientific or biological contexts to refer to the pincer-like appendages of crustaceans and some insects.

  • The crab uses its chela to grasp food.
  • In biology class, we studied the chela of different crustaceans.
pincer

A broad term for the gripping appendage on crustaceans and similar creatures, used in both everyday and technical language.

  • The scorpion has powerful pincers to catch its prey.
  • The crab scuttled away, raising its pincers in defense.
claw

A general term often used to describe the sharp, curved nails on animals like cats or the pincers on crustaceans.

  • The cat extended its claw to scratch the post.
  • Lobsters have strong claws for catching prey.
crusher

Usually used in a more mechanical context, referring to something that crushes or grinds. In terms of crustaceans, it specifically refers to the stronger, larger pincer.

  • The lobster's crusher is much larger than its other pincer.
  • In the factory, a crusher is used to break down large rocks.

Examples of usage

  • The lobster used its chela to crack open the shell of a clam.
  • The crab's chela is strong enough to break through the hard shell of a mollusk.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Zoology

  • In crustaceans, chelae can be asymmetrical; one claw may be much larger, which is especially true for male fiddler crabs.
  • Some species can regenerate lost chelae, allowing them to survive after losing a claw to predators.

Culture

  • In many cultures, crabs and their chelae are seen as symbols of resilience and adaptability.
  • The famous Chinese dish 'Chili Crab' features the use of crab chelae, highlighting the culinary importance of these creatures.

Art

  • Chelae are often depicted in art and sculpture, symbolizing strength and power, as seen in ancient engravings of crustaceans.
  • In Native American crafts, shells and animal parts, including chelae, have been used to create jewelry that embodies nature's beauty.

Ecology

  • The claws help crustaceans in foraging for food, defending against predators, and engaging in combat.
  • Chelae play a significant role in the ecosystem by controlling small populations of prey species, thereby maintaining balance.

Origin of 'chela'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'chela' comes from the Latin word 'chela,' meaning 'claw.'
  • In some languages, like Spanish, 'chela' refers to a type of beer, showing how words can take on different meanings over time.

The word 'chela' comes from Latin, where it originally meant 'claw' or 'talon'. It was later used in the context of crustacean anatomy to refer to the specialized pincer-like organ found in lobsters, crabs, and other arthropods.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,618 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.