limb¹ (lĭm)
n.

1. One of the larger branches of a tree.
2. One of the jointed appendages of an animal, such as an arm, leg, wing, or flipper, used for locomotion or grasping.
3. An extension or a projecting part, as of a building or mountain range.
4. One that is considered to be an extension, member, or representative of a larger body or group.
5. Informal. An impish child.

tr.v., limbed, limb·ing, limbs.
To dismember.

idiom:

(out) on a limb Informal.

1. In a difficult, awkward, or vulnerable position.

[Alteration (probably influenced by LIMB²) of Middle English lim, from Old English.]

limb² (lĭm)
n.

1. Astronomy. The circumferential edge of the apparent disk of a celestial body.
2. Mathematics. The edge of a graduated arc or circle used in an instrument to measure angles.
3. Botany. The expanded tip of a plant organ, such as a petal or corolla lobe.

[Middle English, graduated edge of an astronomical instrument, from Old French limbe, from Latin limbus, border.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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