leaplike

Leaplike is an adjective used to describe actions, movements, or phenomena that resemble a leap. It denotes a rapid, propulsive motion that covers distance in a brief interval, often with an airborne phase and a distinctive arcing trajectory.

The term is formed from the noun leap and the suffix -like, and is used across fields to qualify motion or behavior that resembles leaping rather than walking or running. In biomechanics, leaplike locomotion refers to gaits or jumps characterized by a quick takeoff, vertical or diagonal propulsion, and limited ground contact.

In robotics and computer animation, leaplike trajectories are simulated to depict jumps or vaults, sometimes leveraging mechanisms that store and release energy to produce a ballistic arc. In animal behavior descriptions, leaplike can be used to differentiate abrupt, leaping movements from other types of locomotion such as crawling or strolling.

Examples: a frog’s leaplike hop, a robot performing a leaplike vault to clear an obstacle, or a character in a film displaying a leaplike arc as it exits a platform.

See also: Jump; Leaping; Locomotion; Animation.