Prehensile describes an animal's appendage (like a tail, limb, or digit) that is adapted for grasping, holding, or seizing objects. It's a specialized adaptation often seen in arboreal (tree-dwelling) creatures, but it can apply to a wider range of animals, highlighting their ability to manipulate their environment. This capacity provides advantages in obtaining food, constructing shelters, and maneuvering within their habitats. The effectiveness of a prehensile appendage varies, ranging from a light grip for holding onto branches to a strong grasp for lifting heavy objects or even subduing prey. The word implies a level of dexterity and controlled movement essential for manipulation.
Prehensile meaning with examples
- The monkey's prehensile tail allowed it to swing effortlessly through the jungle canopy, using it as a fifth limb to maintain balance and grip branches. This crucial adaptation allows efficient foraging for fruits and enables a safe escape from predators.
- A chameleon's prehensile tongue is an impressive example, shooting out with incredible speed and accuracy to snatch insects from a distance. The sticky tip ensures a secure capture and consumption of prey, making them an efficient hunter.
- The opossum's prehensile toes, aided by a partly prehensile tail, enable it to climb trees and access food sources unavailable to ground-dwelling animals. This also provides it with a means to evade potential predators.
- Certain snakes employ a prehensile grip with their bodies, coiling around their prey or branches. This helps them stabilize themselves for hunting, constrict their prey, or climb.
- The human hand is prehensile, allowing the manipulation of tools and creation of artwork.
Prehensile Synonyms
clinging grasping gripping retractile tenaciousPrehensile Antonyms
non-grasping non-prehensile ungrippable unyieldingPrehensile Crossword Answers
4 Letters
TAIL
6 Letters
GRABBY GREEDY
8 Letters
COVETOUS GRASPING
10 Letters
AVARICIOUS