monopedal
|mo-no-pe-dal|
🇺🇸
/ˌmɑnəˈpɛdəl/
🇬🇧
/ˌmɒnəˈpɛdəl/
single‑footed
Etymology
'monopedal' originates from Greek and Latin elements: specifically Greek 'monos' meaning 'single' and Latin 'pedalis' (from 'pes, ped‑') meaning 'foot'.
'monopedal' formed in English by combining the Greek prefix 'mono-' with Latin-derived 'pedal' (from 'pedalis'/'pes'), following patterns seen in words like 'bipedal' and 'quadrupedal', and entered modern usage to describe single‑footed forms or devices.
Initially composed to mean 'having a single foot' in the literal sense; over time it has been used both literally (biological) and figuratively/technically (designs or supports having one foot).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a device, support, or organism that has or uses a single foot or leg; something that is monopedal in form or function.
The mount was essentially a monopedal, providing a single stable support for the instrument.
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Adjective 1
having or using only one foot or one leg; one‑footed (often used of animals or people capable of movement on a single limb).
The injured bird displayed a monopedal stance while balancing on its single leg.
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Adjective 2
supported by or designed with a single foot or base (used of furniture, mounts, or devices).
The photographer preferred a monopedal tripod for quick outdoor work.
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Last updated: 2025/12/04 01:37