Main Entry: ¹limb

Pronunciation: \ˈlim\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English lim, from Old English; akin to Old Norse limr limb and perhaps to Old English lith limb

Date: before 12th century

1 a : one of the projecting paired appendages (as wings) of an animal body used especially for movement and grasping but sometimes modified into sensory or sexual organs b : a leg or arm of a human being
2 : a large primary branch of a tree
3 : an active member or agent
4 : extension, branch
5 : a mischievous child

— limb·less \ˈlim-ləs\ adjective

— limby \ˈli-mē\ adjective

— out on a limb : in an exposed or dangerous position with little chance of retreat