cursorial

[ kur-sawr-ee-uhl, -sohr- ]

adjective

, Zoology.

1. adapted for running, as the feet and skeleton of dogs, horses, etc.
2. having limbs adapted for running, as certain birds, insects, etc.

cursorial

/ kɜːˈsɔːrɪəl /

adjective

1. zoology adapted for running

   cursorial birds

   a cursorial skeleton

Word History and Origins

Origin of cursorial¹

1830–40; < Late Latin cursōri ( us ) of running ( cursory ) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Those modifications most noticeable in the case of cursorial types may be briefly mentioned as examples.

From Project Gutenberg

It cannot be that it is learned by imitation, any more than the exercise of the cursorial powers can be said to be thus acquired.

From Project Gutenberg

New Zealand has no indigenous mammalia, but in their place great cursorial birds with but rudimentary wings.

From Project Gutenberg

It had three toes, and is classed with the cursorial birds (ostrich, &c.).

From Project Gutenberg

Cursorial adaptations in birds—limb proportions in the skeleton of Geococcyx.

From Project Gutenberg