Multiple-limbed

Referring to an organism or entity possessing more than the typical number of limbs, appendages used for locomotion, manipulation, or sensory perception. These extra limbs may be functional, vestigial, or decorative. The presence of multiple limbs often indicates an evolutionary divergence from a more common body plan or a specialization for a particular environment or lifestyle. The configuration, purpose, and evolutionary origins of these multiple limbs are subject to significant variations across different species. Examples include insects with six legs, spiders with eight, and certain mythological creatures imagined with even more extremities.

Multiple-limbed meaning with examples

• The paleontologist discovered a fossilized trilobite, an extinct marine arthropod, confirming the creature's multiple-limbed structure. Examination of the detailed fossil revealed numerous legs along its segmented body, confirming its adapted structure for walking the seafloor and swimming through water. This discovery provided crucial insights into the evolution of arthropods and highlighted the astonishing diversity of life in ancient oceans.
• In the realm of fantasy, the artist depicted a fearsome dragon with multiple-limbed features and appendages that it used to grasp onto cliffs. These multiple limbs, far exceeding the standard four, allowed the fantastical beast to climb mountains. The artist masterfully portrayed the creature's strength and agility, conveying its power as a mountain-dwelling hunter using multiple-limbed structures to advantage.
• Scientists are studying the rare mutation in certain insects where they develop extra legs, resulting in a multiple-limbed form. These experiments aim to unlock the genetic pathways that control limb development. This research could lead to understanding evolutionary processes and shed light on developmental abnormalities, and allow manipulation of leg development for research.
• The intricate clockwork automaton, a marvel of Victorian engineering, was designed with multiple-limbed elements for complex movements. It used gears, springs, and levers, creating a visual display of mechanical elegance. These multiple limbs served a purpose for it to lift, rotate and perform actions that humans may struggle with. It showcased the potential of robotics in that era.
• The coral polyp, a tiny marine organism, possesses multiple-limbed tentacles which it uses for capturing food from the water currents. These tentacles which function like arms or legs allow the polyp to capture tiny particles. The arrangement of the multiple limbs allows the polyp to feed and reproduce. The multiple-limbed tentacles illustrate a highly effective feeding structure.