QUADRUMANOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Quadrumanous is an adjective that describes a creature or an organism possessing or characterized by four limbs suitable for walking or climbing. Derived from Latin roots, where "quadrus" means "four" and "manus" means "hand," it refers to the ability of an animal to use all four limbs for grasping or manipulating objects.
In zoology, this term is often used to describe primates, specifically those belonging to the family of monkeys and apes. These creatures have four limbs that function as both arms and legs, enabling them to walk on all fours, a locomotion style known as quadrupedalism. Quadrumanous primates, such as gorillas, gibbons, or spider monkeys, have highly dexterous hands with opposable thumbs, which allow them to skillfully manipulate objects and traverse through treetops effortlessly. This adaptation provides them with an advantage in their natural environments, allowing them to forage for food, swing between branches, and build nests with relatively good precision.
Beyond primates, quadrumanous may also describe specific animals or creatures that possess four limbs with grasping capabilities. Although humans are typically categorized as bipeds, not quadrumanous, the term can be metaphorically applied to humans or machines with the ability to use all four limbs skillfully, such as in sports like gymnastics or acrobatics where athletes perform complex maneuvers using both their arms and legs.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for QUADRUMANOUS
Etymology of QUADRUMANOUS
The word quadrumanous is derived from the combination of two Latin words: quadru- means four and manus means hand. In Latin, the word quadrumanus literally translates to having four hands.
Similar spelling words for QUADRUMANOUS
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