Quadrupedal: meaning, definitions and examples
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quadrupedal
[ ˌkwɒdrʊˈpɛdəl ]
animal movement
Quadrupedal refers to a mode of locomotion characterized by the use of four limbs. This term is often applied to animals, including mammals, reptiles, and some amphibians. Quadruple-legged creatures, such as dogs, cats, and horses, typically display both strength and agility. Quadrupedal movement allows these animals to navigate various terrains efficiently. The structure of their limbs provides balance and stability while moving.
Synonyms
four-legged, quadruped
Examples of usage
- Dogs are quadrupedal animals that run swiftly.
- The evolution of quadrupedal locomotion facilitated survival in various environments.
- Quadrupedal gait patterns vary significantly among different species.
Translations
Translations of the word "quadrupedal" in other languages:
🇵🇹 quadrúpede
🇮🇳 चतुर्थपाद
🇩🇪 Vierbeiner
🇮🇩 berempat kaki
🇺🇦 чотириногий
🇵🇱 czworonóg
🇯🇵 四足の (しそくの)
🇫🇷 quadrupède
🇪🇸 cuadrúpedo
🇹🇷 dört ayaklı
🇰🇷 네 발 달린 (네 발 달린 동물)
🇸🇦 أربعة الأرجل
🇨🇿 čtyřnohý
🇸🇰 štvornohý
🇨🇳 四足动物 (sì zú dòngwù)
🇸🇮 štirinožni
🇮🇸 fjórfætlingur
🇰🇿 төрт аяқты
🇬🇪 ოთხფეხა
🇦🇿 dördayaqlı
🇲🇽 cuadrúpedo
Etymology
The term 'quadrupedal' derives from the Latin words 'quattuor,' meaning four, and 'pedalis,' meaning relating to the foot. Its use in the English language dates back to the early 19th century, as scientists and biologists began categorizing animal movement and anatomy more rigorously. The ability of animals to walk on four limbs has fascinated naturalists for centuries, leading to its analysis in various scientific fields, including zoology and comparative anatomy. With the rise of evolutionary biology, understanding quadrupedal locomotion became essential for studying the adaptations and survival strategies of many species. This word not only describes the physical structure but also reflects on behavior and ecological niches occupied by four-legged organisms.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #37,478, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.