Bandylegged

/ˈbændileɡd/ adjective

Definition

Having legs that curve outward in a bow shape, so the knees and thighs don't touch when standing straight.

Etymology

From bandy (curved or bowlegged, possibly from the curved bandy sticks) + legged. The term appeared in English by the 1600s to describe this common physical characteristic.

Kelly Says

Being bandy-legged was actually an advantage for horseback riders in medieval times—the curved legs gave them better grip and stability in the saddle, which is why you see so many depictions of warriors with this shape.

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