Definition

Noun: A type of bird's foot characterized by separate toes, each of which has fleshy, membranous flaps or lobes along its sides. This anatomical structure aids in swimming.

Usage

The term "lobate foot" is a specific zoological term used to describe a particular foot morphology in certain aquatic birds. It is used in scientific, ornithological, and descriptive contexts.

Examples

• The coot is easily identified by its lobate foot, which is perfectly adapted for paddling through water.
• Ornithologists studied the lobate foot to understand the bird's swimming efficiency.
• Unlike webbed feet, a lobate foot has distinct, lobed toes.

Advanced Usage

The structure is an evolutionary adaptation for aquatic locomotion. The lobes spread out during the power stroke of swimming to push against the water and fold back during the recovery stroke to reduce drag.

Variants and Related Words

• Lobed (adjective): Having lobes. (e.g., , ).
• Lobe (noun): A rounded projection or division. This is the root word describing the shape of the flaps on the toes.

Synonyms

• Lobed foot
• (Descriptively) Fin-footed (though this can also refer to other foot types)

Different Meanings

"Lobate foot" has a single, specific meaning in biology and ornithology. It does not have common idiomatic or figurative uses.

Noun

1. a bird's foot having separate toes each with membranous flaps along the sides