Definition

Adjective: * Having a relatively short body; describing something, typically a living creature, whose body length is notably less than average or expected for its type or in comparison to something else.

Usage

This adjective is used to describe the physical proportions of an animal, fish, or sometimes other entities, where the trunk or main section is conspicuously short. It is a descriptive term often found in biological, zoological, or comparative contexts.

Examples

• The short-bodied fish darted quickly between the rocks.
• Breeders have developed a short-bodied variety of that dog breed.
• Compared to its relatives, the insect has a remarkably short-bodied form.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in technical descriptions within scientific literature.
  • The specimen is characterized by a short-bodied morphology.
• It may be used comparatively, even if not explicitly stated.
  • The short-bodied design of the vehicle improved its maneuverability in tight spaces. (Here, "design" is metaphorically given a "body").

Variants and Related Words

• Short-bodied is a compound adjective. Its components are:
  • Short (adj.): Of little length; not long.
  • Bodied (adj.): Having a body of a specified kind (used in combination, e.g., long-bodied, round-bodied).

Synonyms

• Compact
• Stout (implies thickness as well as shortness)
• Truncated (suggests appearing as if cut short)

Antonyms

• Long-bodied
• Elongated
• Lanky

Adjective

1. having a relatively short body