Definition

Noun: - The bodily attribute of being bipedal; having two feet: The condition or characteristic of using only two legs for walking and standing.

Usage

The word "bipedalism" is a technical term used primarily in biological anthropology, evolutionary biology, and zoology. It describes a specific anatomical and locomotory trait. It is typically used in academic, scientific, or formal discussions about the evolution and physiology of animals, especially humans and their ancestors.

Examples

• The evolution of bipedalism is a defining feature in the human lineage.
• Scientists study fossilized hip bones to understand the origins of bipedalism.
• Bipedalism requires significant adaptations in the spine, pelvis, and legs.

Advanced Usage

• Facultative bipedalism: Refers to species that are capable of walking on two legs but do so only occasionally (e.g., some primates like chimpanzees).
• Obligate bipedalism: Refers to species for which walking on two legs is the primary and necessary method of locomotion (e.g., humans, birds).

Variants and Related Words

• Bipedal (Adjective): Describing an animal that uses two legs for walking.
  • Humans are bipedal creatures.
• Biped (Noun): An animal that has two feet.
  • Birds and humans are both bipeds.

Synonyms

• Two-legged locomotion: A more descriptive phrase for the act of moving on two legs.
• Erect posture: Often used in the context of human evolution to describe the stance associated with bipedalism.

Antonyms

• Quadrupedalism: The condition of walking on four legs.
• Knuckle-walking: A specific form of quadrupedal locomotion used by gorillas and chimpanzees.

Noun

1. the bodily attribute of being bipedal; having two feet
   • bipedalism made the human form of birth possible