Limbs: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a very general sense to describe the arms and legs of a human or animal.

• She exercised to strengthen her limbs.
• The tree's limbs were heavy with fruit.

Used more often in a biological or scientific context to refer to parts of the body that are attached to the main body, such as arms, legs, or tails.

• The insect's appendages help it move quickly.
• Marine animals have various appendages to help them swim.

Commonly used to describe the farthest points of the body, like hands and feet. Also used in medical or anatomical contexts.

• He felt a tingling sensation in his extremities.
• Frostbite can affect the extremities.

Often used in more formal or archaic language to refer to parts of the body, particularly arms and legs. Can also mean people in a group, but that's outside this specific context.

• The statue depicted a knight with all his members intact.
• He has full use of all his members.