Tail Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐พ
tail
[teษชl ]
Definitions
of an animal
The hindmost part of an animal, especially when prolonged beyond the rest of the body, such as the flexible extension of the backbone in a vertebrate, the feathers at the hind end of a bird, or a terminal appendage that moves with a fish.
Synonyms
backside, hindquarters, rear end.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tail |
Refers to the elongated part projecting from the rear of an animal. Commonly used in both scientific and everyday language when talking about animals.
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| rear end |
Can be used informally to refer to the back part of anything, often a vehicle or a person's buttocks. It has a casual tone.
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| hindquarters |
Commonly used in a more formal or scientific context to describe the back part of an animal, especially in veterinary and biological discussions.
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| backside |
Typically used in informal, everyday language to mean the back part of anything or someone's buttocks. It has a mild, casual tone.
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Examples of usage
- The cat wagged its tail in excitement.
- The peacock displayed its colorful tail feathers.
- The fish swam gracefully, its tail moving back and forth.
end of something
The rear part of an aircraft, with the tailplane and rudder.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tail |
Refers to the hindmost part of an animal, especially a vertebrate, or used metaphorically to denote the end part of something long. It can also mean to follow someone closely.
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| rear |
Used to specify the back part of something, especially in relation to a vehicle or building. Can also refer to the back side of an army or a group.
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| end |
Signifies the final point or the furthest extent of something, whether in space or time. Used in contexts where something finishes or is no longer continuing.
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| back |
Describes the rear part of something or the part opposite the front. Often used to indicate the side of an object or person's body that is turned away from you.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot made adjustments to the tail of the plane.
- The plane's tail was painted with the company logo.
follow behind
Follow or hang behind (someone or something) closely.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tail |
Typically used in surveillance or when someone is being followed secretly, it implies a focused and often deliberate act of following.
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| follow |
Used broadly in both literal and metaphorical senses, it means to come after or move behind someone or something. It's neutral and suitable for everyday use.
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| shadow |
Often implies a secretive or undercover action of following someone closely, sometimes with an implication of watching or spying on them. It can carry a slightly negative or suspicious connotation.
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| trail |
Used when someone or something is following behind at some distance, often in scenarios involving travel or pursuit. It can imply a slower or less direct following.
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Examples of usage
- The dog tailed its owner as they walked through the park.
- The detective tailed the suspect through the crowded streets.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Many animals use their tails for balance, such as cats when they leap or tightrope walk.
- Some species, like fish and reptiles, utilize their tails for propulsion through water or aiding in swift escape from predators.
- Certain mammals can communicate emotions through their tails โ for example, dogs wag their tails when theyโre excited.
Cultural Significance
- In several cultures, tails symbolize freedom and instinct, often linked to animal spirits and their prowess.
- In folklore, animals with extraordinary tails, like the kitsune in Japanese mythology, possess magical abilities.
- Tails have also inspired various art forms, appearing in cartoons and folklore as anthropomorphic characters with exaggerated features.
Pop Culture
- In animated films, characters often have tails to express emotions โ think of how a dragonโs tail can show its mood!
- The character of Dumbo in Disney has large ears and a small tail that adds to his uniqueness and charm.
- Mermaids are often depicted with long, flowing tails, contributing to their mythical and enchanting representations.
Science
- Birds tail feathers are not just for steering; they also help in displaying mating behaviors and social interactions.
- In the scientific study of genetics, the term 'tail' can refer to the end part of chromosomes, indicating genetic information.
- Research in biomechanics explores how tails help in locomotion, leading to innovations in robotics mimicking animal movements.
Origin of 'tail'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tail' comes from the Old French 'queue,' which means a rope or string, further derived from Latin 'cauda.'
- In Old English, the term 'talu' referred specifically to the end part of an animal, showing its long history in the language.
- Interestingly, 'tail' has been used metaphorically in literature to mean the narrative parts or endings of stories.
The word 'tail' originated from Old English 'tรฆgl' which referred to the hindmost part of an animal. Over time, its usage expanded to include the rear part of objects such as aircraft. The verb form of 'tail' emerged in the 16th century, meaning to follow closely behind. Today, 'tail' remains a versatile word used in various contexts.