Forelimb: meaning, definitions and examples

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forelimb

 

[ ˈfɔːˌlɪm ]

Context #1

anatomy

The front limb of a quadruped, such as a dog, horse, or bear, that corresponds to the human arm.

Synonyms

anterior limb, front limb

Examples of usage

  • The forelimbs of a horse are used for support and locomotion.
  • The bear extended its forelimb to catch a fish in the river.
Context #2

zoology

The anterior limb of an animal, especially when modified for grasping or swimming.

Synonyms

anterior limb, front limb

Examples of usage

  • The forelimbs of dolphins are adapted for swimming in the ocean.
  • The forelimbs of primates are used for climbing trees and manipulating objects.

Translations

Translations of the word "forelimb" in other languages:

🇵🇹 membro anterior

🇮🇳 अग्रभुज

🇩🇪 Vordergliedmaße

🇮🇩 anggota tubuh depan

🇺🇦 передня кінцівка

🇵🇱 kończyna przednia

🇯🇵 前肢 (ぜんし)

🇫🇷 membre antérieur

🇪🇸 miembro anterior

🇹🇷 ön uzuv

🇰🇷 앞다리 (apdari)

🇸🇦 طرف أمامي

🇨🇿 přední končetina

🇸🇰 predná končatina

🇨🇳 前肢 (qiánzhī)

🇸🇮 sprednja okončina

🇮🇸 framlimur

🇰🇿 алдыңғы аяқ

🇬🇪 წინა კიდური

🇦🇿 ön ətraf

🇲🇽 miembro anterior

Word origin

The term 'forelimb' originated from the combination of 'fore' meaning in front of or before, and 'limb' referring to a branch or a projecting part of a tree. It has been used in anatomy and zoology to describe the front limbs of various animals for centuries, highlighting their importance in movement, support, and adaptation to different environments.

See also: limber, limbs.