Toadlike

Toadlike is an adjective used to describe features or forms that resemble a toad. The term is common in biology, paleontology, and descriptive writing to indicate likeness to the general appearance and lifestyle of toads, rather than to imply a close taxonomic relationship.

Typical toadlike traits include a stout, squat body plan and relatively short limbs compared with frogs, a broad head, and dry, warty skin. The locomotion often involves short hops or skittering rather than sustained jumping, and the animal is frequently more terrestrial than aquatic.

In scientific contexts, toadlike morphology may help describe fossil silhouettes or living species within or outside true bufonid lineages, especially when skull shape, armor-like skin, or posture resembles that of toads. In vernacular or literary usage, toadlike can convey unattractiveness or grotesque features, or contrast with froglike elegance.

Note that "toadlike" is a descriptive, not a taxonomic term. It captures resemblance rather than classification, and precise diagnosis requires comparison with actual toad anatomy or related taxa.