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tail

[teɪl]

tail Definition

  • 1the hindmost part of an animal, especially when prolonged beyond the rest of the body, such as the flexible extension of the backbone in a vertebrate, the feathers at the hind end of a bird, or a terminal appendage in an insect.
  • 2the rear part of a person's body.
  • 3a thing resembling an animal's tail in its shape or position, typically extending downwards or outwards at the end of something.

Using tail: Examples

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

  • Example

    The dog wagged its tail excitedly.

  • Example

    He held the fish by the tail.

  • Example

    The car had a tail of dust behind it.

  • Example

    She wore a dress with a long train that trailed behind her like a tail.

tail Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tail

Antonyms for tail

Phrases with tail

  • to run away or retreat from a difficult situation

    Example

    When they saw the police coming, the thieves turned tail and ran.

  • in a state of defeat or humiliation

    Example

    After losing the game, the team went home with their tails between their legs.

  • get off someone's tail

    to stop following or pursuing someone closely

    Example

    The paparazzi were chasing the celebrity, but the bodyguards managed to get them off his tail.

Origins of tail

Old English 'tægl', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'taggel'.

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Summary: tail in Brief

The term 'tail' [teɪl] refers to the hindmost part of an animal or person's body, or a thing resembling it. It can be a flexible extension of the backbone in a vertebrate, feathers at the hind end of a bird, or a terminal appendage in an insect. Phrases like 'turn tail' denote running away, while 'between your legs' implies defeat or humiliation.

How do native speakers use this expression?