Webfoot - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

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anatomy

Webfoot refers to a type of foot that is equipped with webbing between the toes, which aids in swimming. This adaptation is typically found in aquatic animals such as ducks and some amphibians, allowing them to maneuver efficiently in water.

Synonyms

paddle foot, webbed foot.

Examples of usage

The mallard's webfoot helps it paddle swiftly across the pond.
Frogs have webfeet that facilitate their swimming abilities in their habitat.
Webfooted birds can dive and catch fish more effectively.
The design of the webfoot allows for better propulsion in water.

Interesting Facts

Biology

Animals with webbed feet are often better swimmers due to less resistance from water.
Webbed feet can help these animals catch food, move easily in their habitats, and escape from predators.
Different species have varying degrees of webbing, with some having highly developed webbing for maximum swimming efficiency.

Cultural References

In popular cartoons, characters like Donald Duck are often portrayed with webbed feet, emphasizing their aquatic nature.
Webfoots is also a nickname for fans of the University of Oregon sports teams, highlighting the state's connection to the habitat of web-footed birds.
The term is sometimes used metaphorically in sports to describe players who excel in water-related activities.

Environmental Science

Wetlands, where many web-footed animals thrive, are crucial ecosystems that support biodiversity.
Web-footed creatures like ducks play pivotal roles in controlling insect populations and maintaining healthy aquatic environments.
Conservation efforts often focus on preserving habitats for these animals as indicators of ecosystem health.

Adaptations

Webbed feet can evolve in response to an animal's environment, showcasing nature’s ability to adapt.
Some amphibians use their webbing not only for swimming but also for climbing and gripping surfaces.
In addition to swimming, webbed feet can help in digging or burrowing in certain species.

Origin of 'webfoot'

Main points about word origin

The word ‘webfoot’ comes from the combination of ‘web,’ meaning connected, and ‘foot,’ referring to the leg part.
It was first used in English around the 19th century to describe the feet of aquatic birds.
Webbed feet are not just found in birds; some mammals like otters and frogs also have similar adaptations.

The term 'webfoot' is derived from the combination of 'web', referring to the membrane or skin that connects the toes, and 'foot', which is the anatomical structure for locomotion. This word likely originated in the early 19th century as zoologists began to classify animals based on their adaptations to different environments. The specific adaptation of webbed feet pertains to both the physical structure and the evolutionary benefits it provides for swimming creatures. The word gained traction as more species were studied and categorized, particularly in the context of ornithology and herpetology, leading to broader recognition of its importance in understanding animal behaviors and habitats.

Webfoot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations