Definition

Noun: * A posterior appendage such as a leg or the homologous structure in other animals. It refers specifically to one of the paired limbs located at or toward the rear of an animal's body.

Usage

The term "hind limb" is used in biological, zoological, and anatomical contexts to describe the back legs of a vertebrate animal. It is often contrasted with "forelimb" (front limb).

Examples

• The kangaroo uses its powerful hind limbs for jumping.
• In the fossil, the structure of the hind limb suggested the dinosaur was a bipedal runner.
• The injury affected the dog's left hind limb, causing it to limp.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in evolutionary biology to discuss the development of limbs, such as the evolution of hind limbs into flippers in cetaceans.
• In veterinary medicine, a common phrase is "hind limb weakness" to describe a clinical symptom.

Variants and Related Words

• Hind leg: A more common, less technical synonym often used interchangeably, especially for mammals.
• Pelvic limb: A formal anatomical term equivalent to hind limb.
• Forelimb (n.): The paired appendage at the front of an animal's body (e.g., an arm, wing, or front leg).

Synonyms

• Hind leg
• Pelvic limb
• Rear leg

Antonyms

• Forelimb
• Front leg
• Thoracic limb

Noun

1. a posterior appendage such as a leg or the homologous structure in other animals