Hoof (noun) refers to the hard, keratin-covered covering of a horse’s foot, or more broadly to the corresponding digit’s nail-like structures in other animals. It denotes the hard part that bears the animal’s weight and aids locomotion. In animal care or anatomy contexts, it also refers to the entire distal part of the limb beneath the ankle or wrist. The term is often used in veterinary, equestrian, and zoological discussions.
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