WordLens

prehensile

1 of 1adjective
/prɪ.ˈhɛn.saɪl/
Forms:more prehensile,most prehensile
1

excessively eager to acquire, especially wealth or possessions

  • His prehensile ambition knew no bounds.
  • She had a prehensile instinct for spotting profitable ventures.
  • The tycoon's prehensile appetite for land reshaped the city.
  • Their prehensile grip on power stifled reform.
  • The politician's prehensile fundraising tactics drew criticism.
Synonyms:
grabbycovetousgraspinggreedyavaricious
2

(of body parts) capable of gripping or holding

  • The monkey's prehensile tail curled around the branch.
  • Chameleons have prehensile feet for gripping twigs.
  • The opossum used its prehensile tail to steady itself.
  • Elephants have prehensile trunks capable of delicate movements.
  • The lizard's prehensile tongue snapped out to catch prey.
Antonyms:
nonprehensile
3

quick to understand or absorb ideas

  • Her prehensile mind absorbed complex theories with ease.
  • He showed a prehensile understanding of legal nuance.
  • The student's prehensile curiosity impressed the professor.
  • With a prehensile wit, she dismantled every argument.
  • A prehensile intellect paired with relentless drive made her unstoppable.