Tails: meaning, definitions and examples

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tails

[ teɪlz ]

^{Context #1}

animal anatomy

The hindmost part of an animal, especially when prolonged beyond the rest of the body, such as the appendage of a quadruped animal or a fish.

Synonyms

appendage, end, extremity

Examples of usage

The fox wagged its tail happily.
The whale's tail emerged from the water.
The dog's tail was wagging vigorously.

^{Context #2}

clothing

The lower back part of a garment, especially a shirt or coat.

Synonyms

border, edge, hem

Examples of usage

She tucked in the back of her shirt to show off her high-waisted pants.
He adjusted the tail of his coat before entering the room.

^{Context #3}

following someone

To follow or pursue someone closely, typically in a stealthy or persistent way.

Synonyms

follow, pursue, track

Examples of usage

The detective tailed the suspect for hours.
The paparazzi tailed the celebrity wherever she went.

Translations

Translations of the word "tails" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caudas

🇮🇳 पूंछें

🇩🇪 Schwänze

🇮🇩 ekor

🇺🇦 хвости

🇵🇱 ogony

🇯🇵 尾

🇫🇷 queues

🇪🇸 colas

🇹🇷 kuyruklar

🇰🇷 꼬리

🇸🇦 ذيول

🇨🇿 ocas

🇸🇰 chvosty

🇨🇳 尾巴

🇸🇮 repi

🇮🇸 skott

🇰🇿 құйрықтар

🇬🇪 კუდები

🇦🇿 quyruqlar

🇲🇽 colas

Word origin

The word 'tail' originated from the Old English word 'tægl', which referred to the rear part of an animal. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings, including the clothing term for the lower back part of a garment. The verb form of 'tail' emerged in the 17th century, describing the act of following someone closely. Today, 'tail' is a versatile word used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

See also: tail, tailcoat, tailor, tailored.