rough-footed
Definition
Adjective: - Having feathers or hair on the feet: "rough-footed" describes a bird or animal whose feet are covered with feathers, hair, or downy material, typically for insulation or adaptation to cold environments.
Usage Examples
- (The owl has feathers on its feet for warmth.)
- (Birds with feathered feet live in high, cold areas.)
Advanced Usage
- "rough-footed" in ornithology: A technical term used to classify birds (e.g., rough-footed buzzard, rough-footed pigeon) whose tarsi (lower legs) are covered with feathers rather than scales.
- The rough-footed buzzard is a common raptor in northern Europe. (The buzzard has feathered legs.)
Variants and Related Words
- Rough-footedness (noun): the state or condition of having rough or feathered feet.
- The rough-footedness of the bird helps it survive in freezing temperatures. (The feathered feet provide protection.)
Synonyms
- Feather-legged: having legs covered with feathers.
- Downy-footed: having soft, fluffy feathers on the feet.
Related Idioms
(No common idioms directly use "rough-footed," as it is a specialized term.)