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Noun, pl. legs

1. A weight bearing and locomotive structure, usually having a columnar shape. During locomotion, legs function as “extensible struts”. The combination of movements at all joints can be modeled as a single, linear element capable of changing length and rotating about an omnidirectional “hip” joint. (

2. An anatomical animal structure used for locomotion. The distal end is often modified to distribute force (such as a foot). Most animals have an even number of legs. (

3. The lower limb of a human being or animal that extends from the groin to the ankle. (

4. A limb or member of an animal used for supporting the body, and in running, climbing, and swimming; especially, that part of the limb between the knee and foot. (

5. The portion of the lower appendage of a human that extends from the knee to the ankle. (

6. That which resembles a leg in form or use; especially, any long and slender support on which any object rests; as, the leg of a table; the leg of pair of compasses or dividers. (


8. A bow, especially. In the phrase to make a leg; probably from drawing the leg backward in bowing. (

Word origin: From a Scandinavian source akin to Old Norse leggr “leg, bone of the arm or leg,” from Proto-Germanic *lagjaz, with no certain ulterior connections.

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