What does digitigrade mean?
The term digitigrade refers to a specific type of foot structure found in certain animals, where the hind feet or toes are adapted for walking on their toes. This adaptation allows for a more efficient and stealthy gait, making it well-suited for hunting and other activities. In zoology, digitigrade is often used to describe the foot structure of cats, dogs, and other animals that exhibit this characteristic. The term is derived from the Latin words 'digit' meaning toe and 'grade' meaning step or pace.
adjectiveHaving the hind feet or toes adapted for walking on their toes, typically with the heel raised and the toes spread apart.
- Having the hind feet or toes adapted for walking on their toes, typically with the heel raised and the toes spread apart.
"The digitigrade posture of the cat allowed it to move stealthily through the forest."
"The digitigrade posture of the cat allowed it to move stealthily through the forest."
"The digitigrade gait of the horse made it well-suited for long-distance running."
The plural form is used to describe multiple animals that exhibit this characteristic.
"The digitigrades of the forest were well-suited for hunting and other activities."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of digitigrade
The term digitigrade is derived from the Latin words 'digit' meaning toe and 'grade' meaning step or pace. It was first used in the 17th century to describe the foot structure of certain animals, and has since been adopted in zoology and other fields to describe this specific type of adaptation.
Usage notes
In zoology, digitigrade refers to the foot structure of certain animals, such as cats and dogs, where the hind feet or toes are adapted for walking on their toes. This term is often used in contrast to plantigrade, which refers to animals that walk on the soles of their feet.