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Prehensile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prehensile

[priหˆhษ›nsaษชl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

animal anatomy

Prehensile refers to the ability of an appendage or organ to grasp or hold objects. This term is commonly used to describe certain tails, limbs, or other structures in animals that are adapted for manipulation of the environment.

Synonyms

grasping, holding.

Examples of usage

  • The monkey used its prehensile tail to swing from branch to branch.
  • Certain species of opossums have prehensile tails that help them climb.
  • Prehensile fingers allow some primates to grasp branches easily.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Many species of primates have prehensile tails, allowing them to maneuver through trees effortlessly.
  • Certain reptiles, like iguanas, also have tails that can be used to stabilize themselves against a branch while climbing.
  • Prehensile adaptations are not exclusive to tails; some animals have evolved prehensile hands or feet, like koalas or some species of frogs.

Evolutionary Biology

  • The development of prehensile abilities often correlates with an animal's environment, particularly in arboreal (tree-dwelling) species.
  • Adaptive radiation in animals has led to specializations that enhance their ability to grasp objects, reflecting diverse evolutionary paths.
  • Fossil evidence suggests that some ancient animals may have had prehensile features similar to modern species, indicating evolutionary advantages.

Cultural Symbolism

  • In various cultures, the ability to grasp symbolizes intelligence and adaptability, often portrayed in artistic expressions.
  • Stories and folklore sometimes feature animals with prehensile features as wise or cunning, reflecting their ability to navigate challenges.
  • The concept is used metaphorically in literature to describe characters who are resourceful and able to 'grasp' opportunities.

Science

  • Studies in biomechanics explore how prehensile limbs can efficiently exert force, beneficial for tasks like climbing or manipulating objects.
  • Research in sensory biology shows that the tactile senses play a significant role in improving the effectiveness of prehensile grasping.
  • Neuroscientific studies indicate that brain regions responsible for motor control are highly developed in animals with prehensile capabilities.

Origin of 'prehensile'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'prehensile' comes from the Latin word 'prehendere,' which means 'to seize' or 'to grasp.'
  • First recorded use in English was around the early 17th century, reflecting the growing interest in animal behavior.
  • Related words include 'prehend,' which appears in other contexts like 'comprehend' (to understand), showing how grasping has broader meanings.

The word 'prehensile' comes from the Latin word 'prehensilis', which means 'able to seize or grasp'. This Latin term is derived from the verb 'prehendere', meaning 'to seize, grasp, or take'. The use of the term has evolved over time to encompass the function of certain body parts that are specifically adapted for gripping or holding onto objects, primarily in the context of animal anatomy. It has been extensively used in scientific literature, especially in zoology, to describe features of various animals, such as marsupials and some primates, that have evolved to utilize their body parts effectively in their environments.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,070 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.