The spelling of the phrase "long limbed" can be explained with the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The first word, "long," is pronounced [lɒŋ], with the "o" sound represented by the symbol /ɒ/. The second word, "limbed," is pronounced [lɪmd], with the "i" sound represented by the symbol /ɪ/. The "e" at the end of "limbed" is not pronounced, as it is a silent letter. Overall, the spelling accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word "long limbed."
The term "long-limbed" refers to an individual or creature possessing limbs that are significantly elongated or extended in comparison to the average proportions. This characteristic is commonly used to describe the physical appearance of organisms, emphasizing their remarkable length or elongation of arms, legs, or other appendages in relation to their overall body size.
In human beings, being "long-limbed" typically suggests a person having limbs that are visibly longer than average, resulting in a lanky or slender appearance. This trait may be indicative of a taller stature, and individuals with long limbs often exhibit an elegant or elongated body shape. Furthermore, being long-limbed can also imply a certain level of flexibility as well as potential advantages in activities that require reach or agility.
Animals can also possess this characteristic, with long-limbed creatures such as giraffes, spiders, or certain species of birds exemplifying strikingly extended limbs. For these organisms, having long limbs serves specific biological purposes such as stretching to reach food sources, facilitating rapid movement, or aiding in capturing prey.
In summary, the term "long-limbed" describes an attribute of individuals or organisms whose limbs are notably elongated, whether it be humans or animals. This quality can be associated with aspects such as height, slender physique, flexibility, agility, or specialized adaptations for particular functions within their respective ecosystems.
The word "long-limbed" is a compound adjective that combines the adjective "long" and the noun "limb". "Long" comes from the Old English word "lang" and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "langgaz". "Limb", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "lim", which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "limo". The adjective "long-limbed" is used to describe someone or something having long limbs or appendages, such as tall and slender individuals.