prehensile

[priˈhensəl]

prehensile Definition

• 1. (of an animal's limb or tail) capable of grasping or holding
• 2. able to take hold of and clasp objects

Using prehensile: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prehensile" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The monkey's prehensile tail allowed it to easily move through the trees.

• Example

  Chameleons have prehensile tongues that can catch insects.

• Example

  The sloth's prehensile claws help it to cling to branches.

• Example

  Some primates have prehensile feet that allow them to grasp branches.

prehensile Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for prehensile

• grasping
• clutching
• holding
• gripping
• seizing

Phrases with prehensile

• prehensile organ

  a body part that is adapted for grasping or holding objects

  Example

  The elephant's trunk is a prehensile organ that allows it to pick up small objects.

• prehensile grip

  a strong and secure hold on an object

  Example

  The rock climber had a prehensile grip on the cliff face.

• prehensile ability

  the capability to grasp or hold objects

  Example

  The octopus has a remarkable prehensile ability with its tentacles.

Origins of prehensile

from Latin 'prehendere', meaning 'to seize'

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Summary: prehensile in Brief

'Prehensile' [priˈhensəl] describes an animal's limb or tail that is capable of grasping or holding objects. It is also used to describe the ability to take hold of and clasp objects. Examples include the monkey's prehensile tail, chameleon's prehensile tongue, and sloth's prehensile claws. The term extends into phrases like 'prehensile organ,' referring to a body part adapted for grasping, and 'prehensile grip,' denoting a strong and secure hold.