zygodactyl
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˌzaɪɡəˈdæktɪl//
KK: /ˈzaɪɡəˌdæktɪl/
adjective
Definition
Describing a type of bird foot structure where there are two toes pointing forward and two toes pointing backward, which helps in climbing.
Example
The zygodactyl feet of the parrot allow it to grip branches securely.
Conversation
Have you ever noticed how some birds have such unique feet?
Yeah, like those with zygodactyl toes that help them climb trees!
Exactly, it's fascinating how their feet are designed for their lifestyle.
Right? It makes them really agile when moving around in the branches.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
climbing
grasping
perching
Antonyms
grounded
flat-footed
nonclimbing
noun
Definition
A type of bird that has two toes pointing forward and two toes pointing backward, which helps it grasp branches and climb.
Example
The zygodactyl parrot easily climbed the tree with its unique foot structure.
Conversation
Did you know that a parrot is a type of zygodactyl bird?
Really? I had no idea what that term meant!
Yeah, it refers to birds with two toes pointing forward and two backward.
Root Explanation
Zygodactyl → It is formed from "zygo-" (from Greek "zygon", meaning yoke or pair) and "dactyl" (from Greek "daktylos", meaning finger or toe). The word describes a type of bird that has two toes facing forward and two backward, resembling a pair or yoke of fingers.
Memory Tip
Think of 'zygo-' meaning a 'pair' and 'dactyl' referring to 'fingers' — this helps you remember that zygodactyl birds have a unique toe arrangement that resembles a pair of fingers.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.