Webbed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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webbed

[wɛbd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing anatomy

Webbed refers to a condition where the skin between the fingers or toes is connected. This anatomical feature often facilitates swimming in certain animals like frogs and ducks. Webbed digits can provide advantages in certain environments, such as aquatic habitats, enabling animals to paddle effectively. It can also be a genetic trait in some humans, although it occurs less frequently.

Synonyms

connected, interconnected, joined.

Examples of usage

  • The duck has webbed feet for swimming.
  • Human children can be born with webbed toes.
  • Webbed fingers are common in some reptiles.
  • The frog's webbed hind legs help it swim swiftly.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Webbed feet can be found in various aquatic birds, mammals like otters, and reptiles, demonstrating adaptation for swimming.
  • In birds such as ducks, the skin between their toes acts like a paddle, increasing efficiency in water movement.
  • Some species of frogs have webbing that helps facilitate jumping and swimming, showcasing the diverse evolutionary paths among amphibians.

Culture

  • Webbed creatures often appear in folklore and mythology, representing adaptability or grace in water, such as in tales of water spirits.
  • In various cultures, the image of a webbed creature is sometimes associated with transformation, highlighting the seamless integration of land and water life.
  • Movies and books often feature webbed characters, like anthropomorphic animals that embody traits of swimming and agility, appealing to young audiences.

Sports & Recreation

  • The design of swimming gear often incorporates webbed technology, like flippers, mimicking animal adaptations to enhance speed in the water.
  • In duathlon and triathlon events, athletes sometimes wear webbed gloves or socks to improve swimming efficiency, inspired by nature.
  • Certain sports equipment has evolved to leverage webbed designs for flexibility and performance, showing the influence of natural adaptations.

Environment

  • Wetland ecosystems, where webbed animals thrive, are critical to biodiversity, serving as habitats for various species and playing crucial roles in water filtration.
  • Healthy aquatic flora is vital for webbed animals to find shelter and food, highlighting the interconnectedness of life in these environments.
  • Conservation efforts often focus on protecting wetland areas to sustain the diverse species that rely on webbed adaptations for survival.

Origin of 'webbed'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'webbed' comes from the Old English word 'webb,' meaning 'woven fabric' or 'net-like structure.'
  • Originally used to describe areas with nets or woven materials, the meaning later expanded to include animals with connected digits.
  • The suffix '-ed' indicates a state or condition, signifying that something has been made into a 'web.'

The word 'webbed' is derived from the Old English word 'webb', which means a 'tissue woven together'. The term gained prominence in the 19th century to describe the physical characteristic of interconnected digits in animals, particularly in those adapted for aquatic environments. The concept connects with various biological studies and anatomical descriptions in both zoology and human genetics. As language evolved, 'webbed' began to encompass both physical traits in animals and metaphorical uses to describe interconnectedness in different contexts. The term is often associated with adaptability and efficiency in locomotion within water, reflecting how certain species have evolved through natural selection to develop this characteristic.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,640, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.