Carpi: meaning, definitions and examples

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carpi

 

[ˈkɑːrpaɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

anatomy

Carpi refers to the group of eight small bones that make up the wrist in the human body. They are important for the movement and flexibility of the wrist and hand, allowing for a wide range of motions.

Synonyms

wrist bones.

Examples of usage

  • The carpi are essential for athletes who rely on wrist movement.
  • Injuries to the carpi can severely limit hand functionality.
  • Anatomical studies often focus on the structure and function of the carpi.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The carpi are made up of eight small bones arranged in two rows, providing flexibility and strength to the wrist.
  • These bones connect the forearm bones (radius and ulna) to the hand, enabling a wide range of motion.
  • Issues with the carpi, like fractures or sprains, can significantly affect hand function and mobility.

Etymology

  • The term 'carpus' comes from the Greek word 'karpos' meaning 'wrist', illustrating its ancient roots in anatomy.
  • In Latin, 'carpi' is the plural form of 'carpus', indicating that it's referring to multiple bones.
  • Many anatomical terms in English are derived from Latin and Greek, reflecting the historical influence of these languages in medicine.

Importance in Medicine

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition involving the carpi, happens when the median nerve is compressed, leading to pain and numbness.
  • Surgical procedures involving the carpi, like carpal tunnel release, are among the most common hand surgeries in the world.
  • Understanding the carpi is crucial for diagnosing wrist injuries, as these small bones can be easily overlooked in X-rays.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, dexterity and hand movements, influenced by the carpi, are celebrated in dance and crafts.
  • Some traditional martial arts emphasize wrist strength and flexibility, illustrating the functional importance of the carpi in combat techniques.
  • Artistic expressions, such as calligraphy or painting, rely heavily on the efficient movement provided by the wrist and carpal bones.

Sports Performance

  • Athletes in sports like tennis, gymnastics, and baseball need strong and flexible carpi to perform well and avoid injuries.
  • Cortical mapping studies have shown that the wrist's dexterity, controlled by the carpi, is linked to improved performance in various sports.
  • The rehabilitation of wrist injuries often focuses on strengthening and enhancing flexibility in the carpi for better athletic recovery.

Translations

Translations of the word "carpi" in other languages:

🇵🇹 carpinteiro

🇮🇳 कारपेट

🇩🇪 Zimmermann

🇮🇩 tukang kayu

🇺🇦 тесляр

🇵🇱 stolarz

🇯🇵 大工

🇫🇷 charpentier

🇪🇸 carpintero

🇹🇷 marangoz

🇰🇷 목수

🇸🇦 نجار

🇨🇿 truhlář

🇸🇰 tesár

🇨🇳 木匠

🇸🇮 mizar

🇮🇸 smiður

🇰🇿 долмат

🇬🇪 ხერხი

🇦🇿 döşəmə

🇲🇽 carpintero

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,421, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.