semihumanoid

Semihumanoid refers to beings that resemble humans in some respects but do not fit a fully humanoid or human mold. The term is mainly used in speculative fiction, worldbuilding, and discussions of robotics or prosthetics, and it is not a formal biological category. Its precise meaning depends on context, serving as a descriptive label rather than a scientific rank.

In morphology, semihumanoids are commonly depicted as retaining a generally two-leg, two-armed form with an upright posture, yet diverging from humans in other features. Variants may include additional limbs, non-human facial features, alternative sensory apparatus, exoskeletons, tails, wings, or unconventional organ arrangements. Some designs emphasize humanlike proportions while others emphasize the difference by altering gait, balance, or dexterity.

In fiction and games, semihumanoids are used to explore themes of otherness, cultural contact, and the boundaries of intelligence and emotion. In design discourse, the label can describe robots or avatars that combine human ergonomics with specialized non-humanoid adaptations, such as extra manipulators, tail-based balance, or non-grasping appendages.

Because semihumanoid is informal, it lacks a fixed definition and should be clarified within any given work. It contrasts with humanoid, which implies a closer resemblance to humans, and with non-humanoid, which lacks human-like morphology.

See also Humanoid, Non-humanoid, Bipedalism, Anthropomorphism, Robotics.