Pronunciation: [amfˈɪbɪəs] (IPA) 
The word "amphibious" is spelled with the letter combination "ph" which can be confusing. The "ph" sound is actually pronounced as /f/ in IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet). So, "amphibious" is pronounced as /æmˈfɪbiəs/ with the stress on the second syllable. This word refers to an organism that can live both on land and in water. Understanding IPA can be helpful in improving spelling and pronunciation skills in English.
Amphibious is an adjective that describes an organism or object capable of functioning in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Derived from the Greek words "amphi" meaning both or two, and "bios" meaning life, amphibious emphasizes the duality of an entity's ability to exist in and adapt to different habitats.
In the context of animals, amphibious refers to those capable of living both in water and on land during different stages of their life or even throughout their entire existence. An iconic example is the amphibian class which includes frogs, toads, and salamanders. These organisms undergo metamorphosis, transitioning from an aquatic tadpole phase to become terrestrial adults. They possess specialized adaptations, such as lungs and limbs, which enable them to survive both underwater and on land.
The term amphibious is not limited to living organisms. It can also describe objects or vehicles designed to operate effectively in both water and on land. Amphibious vehicles, for instance, are engineered with features such as buoyancy chambers, water propulsion systems, and watertight seals, allowing them to navigate through bodies of water and traverse over land surfaces.
Overall, amphibious represents the dual capability of an organism or object to function and thrive in two distinct habitats, aptly illustrating the versatility and adaptability found in nature.
Capable of living both on land and in water.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Able to live on land or in water.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "amphibious" traces its origins back to the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "amphibios", which is a combination of "amphi" meaning "both" or "on both sides", and "bios" meaning "life". The term "amphibios" referred to creatures that could live on both land and water, such as frogs and newts. Later, in the 17th century, the English language adopted the term and adapted it into "amphibious" to describe anything capable of operating or living in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
