How do you pronounce 'chela'?

It is pronounced /ˈkiːlə/ (KEE-luh), with a hard 'k' sound, never like 'cheese'.

What is the plural of chela?

The plural is 'chelae' (pronounced /ˈkiːliː/ or /ˈkiːlaɪ/).

Is 'chela' a common English word?

No, it is a low-frequency technical term. Most native English speakers would not know it unless they have studied biology or Hinduism.

Can 'chela' refer to a student?

Yes, but this is a specialised use from Sanskrit, referring to a disciple of a guru in Hindu or Sikh traditions. The biological meaning is primary in English.

chela: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Low

UK/ˈkiːlə/US/ˈkiːlə/

Technical/Scientific (Zoology); Formal/Religious (Hinduism context)

My Flashcards

Quick answer

What does “chela” mean?

The pincer-like claw of a crustacean (e.

Audio

Pronunciation

Definition

Meaning and Definition

The pincer-like claw of a crustacean (e.g., a crab, lobster, or scorpion).

In Hindu religious contexts, a disciple or pupil of a guru. The primary biological meaning is far more common in English.

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

No significant regional difference in meaning. Both uses are recognised, but the zoological term is more likely to be encountered in academic or technical contexts.

Connotations

Neutral and descriptive in zoology; respectful and formal in the spiritual sense.

Frequency

Extremely low frequency in both varieties. Slightly more likely to appear in British English texts on Indian religion or culture.

Grammar

How to Use “chela” in a Sentence

The [animal] used its chela to [action].[Animal] chelae are used for [function].

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong

crab chelalobster chelascorpion chelaenlarged chela

medium

powerful chelaright chelachelae and walking legs

weak

sharp chelamissing chelamovement of the chela

Usage

Meaning in Context

Business

Not used.

Academic

Used in zoology, marine biology, and paleontology papers.

Everyday

Virtually never used.

Technical

The standard term for the specific claw of decapod crustaceans and arachnids.

Vocabulary

Synonyms of “chela”

Strong

pincer

Neutral

clawpincer

Weak

nippergrasping appendage

Vocabulary

Antonyms of “chela”

dactyl (in specific zoological contexts)walking leg

Watch out

Common Mistakes When Using “chela”

Pronouncing it like 'cheese' (with /tʃ/). It is always pronounced with a /k/ sound.
Confusing the two unrelated meanings.
Assuming it is a common word.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

: It is pronounced /ˈkiːlə/ (KEE-luh), with a hard 'k' sound, never like 'cheese'.
: The plural is 'chelae' (pronounced /ˈkiːliː/ or /ˈkiːlaɪ/).
: No, it is a low-frequency technical term. Most native English speakers would not know it unless they have studied biology or Hinduism.
: Yes, but this is a specialised use from Sanskrit, referring to a disciple of a guru in Hindu or Sikh traditions. The biological meaning is primary in English.
: The pincer-like claw of a crustacean (e.
: Chela is usually technical/scientific (zoology); formal/religious (hinduism context) in register.

Phrases

Idioms & Phrases

“None”

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

Think: 'CHELA = CLAW' - both start with a hard C/K sound and have four letters.

Conceptual Metaphor

None common.

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap

The hermit crab has a powerful for defense and feeding.

Multiple Choice

In which field is the term 'chela' most commonly used?