C1noun10K+

Limb

UK /["/lɪm/"]/US /["/lɪm/"]/

Definition

an arm or a leg; a similar part of an animal, such as a wing

In simple words: A part of the body, like an arm or a leg.

Examples

The tree lost a large limb during the storm last night.
After the accident, he had to adjust to life without one of his limbs.
The teacher explained how the human body’s limbs assist in movement and balance.
In robotics, a robotic arm is considered a limb because it replicates human movement.
The limb of the starfish extended over the rock to reach food.
Surgeons operated to attach a prosthetic limb to the patient’s residual limb.

Usage notes

Used in both medical contexts and everyday speech. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing body parts specifically.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'limb' as a 'limb-beer' for your arms or legs when you relax.

Collocations

long
short
slender
amputate
sever
lose
development
growth
amputation

Synonyms

appendage
member
extremity
part
section

Antonyms

center
core
trunk

Common mistakes

Confusing 'limb' with 'limbs', which can refer to multiple parts.
Using 'limb' to describe non-body parts.
Incorrectly spelling 'limb' as 'limbz' in informal contexts.