Legs: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the parts of the body used for standing and walking. Appropriate in informal and general conversation.

• She hurt her legs during the hike
• My legs are tired after the run

A general term for arms and legs. Suitable for both informal and formal contexts, especially when referring to both upper and lower limbs as a group.

• The octopus has eight limbs
• He works out to strengthen his limbs

A formal and medical term specifically referring to the legs. Useful in professional, technical, or precise medical discussions.

• The physical therapist specializes in lower limb rehabilitation
• Injuries to the lower limbs can greatly affect mobility

More formal and often used in medical or anatomical contexts to refer to arms and legs. Can sound technical and is less common in everyday speech.

• The doctor checked his extremities for any signs of injury
• Frostbite often affects the extremities first

Commonly used to refer to the limbs supporting the human or animal body, or the parts of furniture (such as chairs and tables) that support the item and provide stability.

• Her legs were tired after the long hike.
• The table has four legs made of oak.

Generally used to describe the parts or structures that hold up or provide stability to something else. Can be used technically or abstractly, including emotional or financial support.

• The bridge has strong supports to ensure safety.
• She gave him emotional support during the difficult time.

Typically refers to the bottom part of an object that provides support. Often used to describe the foundational part of structures, or metaphorically to describe the underlying principle or starting point of something.

• The base of the statue was made of marble.
• His argument lacked a solid base.

Refers to an object or piece of furniture designed to hold or support something, like a lamp stand or a TV stand. It can also mean to be in an upright position.

• She placed the pot on the plant stand.
• He had to stand all day at work.

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the limbs used for walking or standing in both humans and animals. Suitable for general descriptions and informal conversations.

• He has long legs
• The dog hurt its leg while running

More formal or scientific term for the rear legs. Frequently used in biological, veterinary, and anatomical contexts.

• The frog has very strong hind limbs
• Researchers studied the hind limbs of the cheetah to understand its speed

Less common than 'hind limbs' but still used in scientific and detailed descriptions of animals. Suitable for anatomical or biological discussions.

• The rear limbs of the kangaroo are powerful and allow it to jump great distances
• Injuries to the rear limbs can be serious for quadrupeds

Used to describe the rear legs of a four-legged animal, often in a specific or detailed context. Commonly used by pet owners, veterinarians, and in animal descriptions.

• The rabbit was standing on its back legs
• The horse injured one of its back legs