SKIP TO CONTENT

biped

/ˈbaɪpɛd /
IPA guide

Other forms: bipeds

A biped is an animal that walks on two legs, with two feet. Human beings are one example of bipeds.

Most animals are not bipeds, but mammals that are include kangaroos and some primates. The ostrich, a giant, flightless bird, is the fastest living biped, and animals like bears and lizards are occasional bipeds. The word itself combines bi-, "twice or double" in Latin, and pedis, "foot." Four-footed animals, on the other hand, are quadrupeds.

Definitions of biped
  1. noun
    an animal with two feet
    see moresee less
    type of:
    animal, animate being, beast, brute, creature, fauna
    a living organism characterized by voluntary movement
  2. adjective
    having two feet
    synonyms: bipedal, two-footed
    see moresee less
    antonyms:
    quadruped
    having four feet
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘biped'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family