Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

plantigrade

Adjective

/ˈplæntɪˌɡreɪd/

Definition

An adjective used to describe animals that walk on the soles of their feet, including human beings.

Examples

Humans are classified as plantigrade due to the way we walk with our entire foot touching the ground.
Unlike cats and dogs, which are digitigrade, bears are considered plantigrade mammals.
When studying animal locomotion, researchers often examine the differences between plantigrade and digitigrade species.

Meaning

Referring to the mode of locomotion in animals that move by putting their entire foot on the ground, as opposed to walking on their toes or fingertips.