Chelae: meaning, definitions and examples

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chelae

[ kɪˈliː ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

biology

Chelae are the pincer-like claws found on the end of the legs of some arthropods, such as crabs and scorpions. These specialized limbs are used for grasping and holding prey, defending themselves, and grooming.

Synonyms

claws, pincers, tongs.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
chelae	Scientific or technical discussions about crustaceans or arachnids. The chelae of the crab are adapted for gripping and cutting The structure of chelae helps scorpions catch their prey
claws	Everyday language referring to the gripping and tearing appendages of animals, including birds, mammals, and crustaceans. The cat sharpened its claws on the tree The crab's claws were very strong
pincers	Describing the gripping or cutting organs of crustaceans and similar animals; can also be used metaphorically. The lobster's pincers can cause a painful pinch He felt like he was caught between the pincers of a dilemma
tongs	Describing a tool used for picking up and holding objects, commonly in kitchens, workshops, or laboratories. She used tongs to turn the sausages on the grill The blacksmith used tongs to hold the hot metal

Examples of usage

The crab used its chelae to break open the shell of a clam.
The scorpion's chelae are sharp and powerful, allowing it to catch its prey.

Translations

Translations of the word "chelae" in other languages:

🇵🇹 quelíceras

🇮🇳 क्लिपर

🇩🇪 Scheren

🇮🇩 capit

🇺🇦 хеліцери

🇵🇱 szczękoczułki

🇯🇵 鋏角

🇫🇷 chélicères

🇪🇸 quelíceros

🇹🇷 kıskaç

🇰🇷 집게발

🇸🇦 قَرون الفك

🇨🇿 klepítka

🇸🇰 klepietka

🇨🇳 螯肢

🇸🇮 klešče

🇮🇸 klaufar

🇰🇿 құйрық

🇬🇪 ქლიპერი

🇦🇿 qıskaç

🇲🇽 quelíceros

Etymology

The word 'chelae' comes from the Greek word 'khēlē', which means 'claw' or 'talon'. It has been used in biology to describe the specialized claws of arthropods for centuries, dating back to ancient Greek and Roman texts.