What does the term "bipedalism" refer to?

The term "bipedalism" specifically refers to the ability to walk on two legs. This adaptive trait is significant in human evolution and is characterized by the use of the lower limbs for locomotion while the upper limbs are free to use for other tasks, such as tool use or carrying items. Bipedalism is a key feature that distinguishes humans and their ancestors from many other primates and animals that rely on four-legged movement or other forms of mobility. This ability has had profound implications for human development, shaping aspects of anatomy and social behavior. Understanding bipedalism is crucial for exploring how early hominins adapted to changing environments and how this influenced their survival and evolutionary path.