Pronunciation: [pˈɛlvɪk lˈɪm] (IPA) 
The spelling of the term "pelvic limb" follows the standard English phonetic rules. The first syllable "pelv-" is pronounced as /ˈpɛlv/ with the sound /ɛ/ as in "egg". The second syllable "ic" is stressed and pronounced as /ˈlɪm/ with the sound /ɪ/ as in "sit". The entire word is pronounced as /ˈpɛlvɪk ˈlɪm/. It refers to the hind limb or leg of an animal that is attached to the pelvic bone.
The term "pelvic limb" refers to one of the two paired limbs present in many animals, including mammals. It is also commonly known as a hind limb or back leg. The pelvic limb is attached to the pelvic girdle, an important skeletal structure that connects the limbs to the spinal column.
In anatomical terms, the pelvic limb extends from the hip joint to the foot. It consists of several segmental parts, including the femur, tibia, fibula, tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges. The proximal end of the limb is connected to the pelvic girdle via the hip joint, while the distal end terminates with the foot.
The pelvic limb has crucial functions in movement and locomotion, allowing animals to walk, run, and jump. It supports the body, provides stability, and generates propulsive forces during locomotion. The arrangement and structure of the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the pelvic limb enable a wide range of complex movements necessary for various activities.
In veterinary medicine and anatomy, a thorough understanding of the pelvic limb is essential for assessing and diagnosing injuries, diseases, or malformations in the limb. Additionally, the study of the pelvic limb can provide valuable insights into the evolutionary adaptations and functional specialization of different animal species.
A lower extremity.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pelvic" is derived from the Latin word "pelvis", which means "basin" or "bowl". The term "limb" is derived from the Old English word "lim", which means "joint" or "branch". When combined, "pelvic limb" refers to the limbs or legs that are attached to the pelvic region, specifically in animals.
