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 being2: a large primary branch of a tree3: an active member or agent4: extension, branch5: 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