The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

appendage

IPA:

Dictionary definition of appendage

A part that is attached or added to something larger, typically a limb or an extension of the body.
"The surgeon skillfully reattached the severed appendage."

Detailed meaning of appendage

In biology, an appendage is a specialized part of an organism that serves a particular function, such as the legs of an insect, the wings of a bird, or the fins of a fish. Appendages can also refer to additional features that are added to a machine, tool, or object to enhance its functionality or performance. In a figurative sense, an appendage can also refer to something that is attached to a larger entity, but is not considered essential or integral to it, such as an assistant to a CEO or a subordinate to a military commander. Overall, the term "appendage" implies a secondary or supporting role, rather than a primary or essential one.

Example sentences containing appendage

1. The crab's claws are its most distinctive appendages.
2. He injured his arm, a crucial appendage for playing the violin.
3. Insects often have segmented appendages for locomotion.
4. The lizard can regenerate a lost appendage, like its tail.
5. Leaves are considered appendages of a plant's stem.
6. The robot's mechanical appendages allowed it to perform delicate tasks.

History and etymology of appendage

The noun 'appendage' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'appendere,' which is a combination of 'ad,' meaning 'to,' and 'pendere,' meaning 'to hang.' The idea conveyed by 'appendage' is something that is 'hung to' or attached to something larger or central. In the context of biology and anatomy, 'appendage' refers to a part or extension of an organism's body that is attached to its main structure. This can include limbs, such as arms and legs, as well as other protruding structures like wings or antennae. The term 'appendage' aptly describes these additional body parts that are attached to a central body, emphasizing their connection and dependence on the main structure.

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Further usage examples of appendage

1. Starfish use their tube feet as sensory appendages.
2. The bird's colorful feathers serve as both insulation and display appendages.
3. The medical condition caused abnormal growth on her skin appendages.
4. The sea creature's tentacles are specialized appendages for capturing prey.
5. The machine had various interchangeable appendages for different functions.
6. Frogs use their long tongues as a unique feeding appendage.
7. Some species of fish have bioluminescent appendages to attract prey.
8. The plant's tendrils are modified leaf appendages for climbing.
9. The caterpillar's tiny appendages help it move and grip surfaces.
10. The prosthetic limb acted as a functional appendage for the amputee.
11. Spiders use their silk-spinning appendages to create intricate webs.
12. The surgeon removed the damaged appendage to prevent further complications.
13. The snake's fangs are venom-injecting appendages used for hunting.
14. The crab's large claw is its most prominent appendage.
15. Insects often have antennae as sensory appendages.
16. The robot's robotic arm served as a versatile appendage.
17. A seahorse's prehensile tail is a unique appendage.
18. Some lizards can regenerate a lost appendage.
19. An octopus has numerous tentacles as appendages.
20. Human fingers and toes are considered appendages.
21. The spider's web-spinning spinnerets are vital appendages.
22. Birds' wings are specialized appendages for flight.
23. The centipede's numerous legs function as appendages.
24. The surgical procedure aimed to remove the problematic appendage.