Meaning & Definition of word "Tentacle"

Tentacle

/ˈtɛntəkl/

1. A long, flexible appendage found in some animals, such as octopuses and certain jellyfish, used for grasping or feeling.
- Example: The octopus extended its tentacle to reach the food at the bottom of the tank.
2. A slender, flexible limb or appendage in invertebrates, especially used for sensation or manipulation.
- Example: The anemone's tentacles swayed gently in the water, waiting for prey to pass by.
3. Anything that is similar to a tentacle in form or function, particularly something that extends into an area to make contact or influence.
- Example: The corporation extended its tentacles into the renewable energy sector.
4. In a metaphorical sense, a reach or influence extending into various areas.
- Example: The artist's influence has tentacles reaching into both music and visual arts.

Latin tentaculum, from tentare, meaning 'to feel or touch'.

reach out like a tentacle:

To extend one's influence or control broadly in a subtle way.

tentacles of government:

Referring to the various reach or influence of governmental powers.

sucker:

A small, soft, usually circular part that can adhere to surfaces, often found on the ends of tentacles in animals like octopuses.

appendage:

A body part that is attached to a larger structure, similar to a tentacle.

Meaning: Used to describe something that reaches out or grips strongly.

Example Sentence: His tentacle-like grip on the market is impressive.

Meaning: Referring to something complicated or tangled in a situation, like a tentacle.

Example Sentence: The laws have tentacle-like complexities that are hard to navigate.