Pronunciation: [fˈɔːlɛɡz] (IPA) 
Forelegs is a compound word consisting of the prefix "fore-" and the word "legs". The prefix "fore-" means "front" and is pronounced /fɔːr/. The word "legs" refers to the limbs that animals use for walking or running, and is pronounced /lɛɡz/. When combined, the pronunciation becomes /ˈfɔːrleɡz/ with the stress on the first syllable "fore". This word is used to describe the front legs of a quadrupedal animal, such as a dog or horse.
Forelegs are the pair of limbs located at the front of certain animals, serving as primary appendages for support, locomotion, and manipulation. Found in various species, including mammals, reptiles, and birds, forelegs play a fundamental role in their daily activities. Anatomically, these limbs are typically characterized by their proximity to the head and their positioning on the anterior end of the body.
In mammals, forelegs consist of a combination of bones, joints, muscles, and tendons that work together to facilitate movement. They often serve as weight-bearing structures, allowing animals to walk, run, climb, and perform various tasks needed for sustenance or defense. Forelegs enable animals to navigate and negotiate their environment by providing stability and propulsion.
In different animals, forelegs may have distinct adaptations to suit their specific lifestyles or evolutionary pressures. For instance, primates have highly dexterous forelimbs, which can be used for grasping objects, grooming, and manipulating tools. Birds possess forelimbs modified into wings, allowing them to fly. In reptiles, forelegs can enable various forms of locomotion, such as crawling or burrowing.
Overall, forelegs are integral to the overall mobility and functioning of many animals, allowing them to engage in a wide range of behaviors necessary for survival and adaptation to their respective habitats.
The etymology of the word "forelegs" can be traced back to Old English. It is a compound word that consists of "fore", meaning "in front" or "before", and "legs", referring to the limbs used for walking or running. In Old English, "fore" was often used to indicate a position or direction at the front. Thus, "forelegs" essentially refers to the legs located at the front of an animal's body.
