Pronunciation: [bˈə͡ʊlɛɡz] (IPA) 
The word "bowlegs" is spelled with a "w" despite being pronounced with a "u" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be pronounced /ˈboʊlɛɡz/. The "w" is a historical spelling that was used in Old and Middle English to represent a "u" or "v" sound. Over time, the pronunciation shifted, but the spelling remained. Bowlegs are a physical condition where the knees curve outward, giving the appearance of a bow.
Bowlegs, also known as genu varum, refer to a medical condition in which an individual's legs have an outward curvature, causing them to appear like the shape of a bow. This condition typically manifests during childhood, particularly in toddlers and infants. Bowlegs occur due to several factors, including the abnormal alignment of the bones in the lower limbs, muscle or joint imbalance, or developmental disorders.
The appearance of bowlegs is characterized by a gap between the knees when the individual stands with their feet together, along with an outward pointing of the feet and ankles. In some cases, the severity of the bowing may be more pronounced in one leg compared to the other. While this condition is considered normal in infants up to the age of two, it should resolve naturally as they grow older and their bones and muscles strengthen. However, if the bowing persists beyond this age or worsens significantly, it is crucial to seek medical attention, as it may indicate an underlying health condition that requires intervention.
Treatment options for bowlegs often depend on the cause and severity of the condition. In mild cases, no specific treatment may be necessary, and the condition may resolve naturally as the child grows. In more severe or persistent cases, interventions such as braces, physical therapy exercises, or, rarely, surgical procedures may be recommended to correct the alignment of the legs and promote normal growth and development. Early detection and appropriate medical management are crucial in minimizing potential long-term complications and promoting optimal leg alignment.
The word "bowlegs" is derived from the combination of two terms: "bow" and "legs".
The term "bow" comes from Old English "boga", which referred to a curved or bent object. It came to English through the Germanic languages and is related to words like "bow" (as in archery) and "bough" (a branch).
The word "legs" has Old English roots as well, deriving from the Proto-Germanic word "legaz". It is related to similar terms in other Germanic languages.
When combined, "bow" and "legs" create the term "bowlegs", which describes a condition where a person's legs curve outwards instead of being straight when standing with their heels together.
