prehension

[ pri-hen-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of seizing or grasping.
2. mental apprehension.

prehension

/ prɪˈhɛnʃən /

noun

1. the act of grasping
2. apprehension by the senses or the mind

Word History and Origins

Origin of prehension¹

1525–35; < Latin prehēnsiōn- (stem of prehēnsiō ) a taking hold, equivalent to prehēns ( us ) (past participle of prehendere to seize, equivalent to pre- pre- + -hendere to grasp; akin to get ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

Very often one or other of the appendages may be modified for prehension, the seizing of prey or the holding of a mate.

From Project Gutenberg

It is covered with numerous large papillae, and forms, like the trunk of the elephant, an admirable organ for the examination and prehension of food.

From Project Gutenberg

The number of metacarpals and digits diminishes in proportion as the limbs cease to be organs of prehension, and become more exclusively organs of support and locomotion.

From Project Gutenberg

The trunk is of great strength and sensibility, and serves alike for respiration, smell, taste, suction, touch, and prehension.

From Project Gutenberg

To gain this great advantage, the feet have been rendered flat, and the great toe peculiarly modified, though this has entailed the loss of the power of prehension.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• awareness
• grasp
• insight
• intelligence
• judgment
• knowledge
• perception
• realization
• recognition
• sense