Clubfoot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clubfoot

[ˈklʌb.fʊt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Clubfoot is a congenital condition characterized by an abnormal positioning of the foot. The affected foot may appear twisted and may point downward or inward. It occurs when the tissues connecting the muscles to the bones are shorter than usual, resulting in a deformed foot. Clubfoot can vary in severity and may affect one or both feet. Treatment often involves stretching, casting, or surgery to correct the position of the foot.

Synonyms

deformed foot, foot deformity, talipes.

Examples of usage

  • The baby was diagnosed with clubfoot at birth.
  • Early intervention is crucial for correcting clubfoot.
  • Doctors recommend starting treatment for clubfoot immediately.
  • Many children with clubfoot go on to walk normally.

Translations

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Origin of 'clubfoot'

The term 'clubfoot' has origins dating back to the 15th century, derived from the Middle English 'clubbe', meaning a stiff or bent object, and 'fot', meaning foot. The term aptly describes the appearance of the foot in this condition, which resembles a club due to its twisted shape. In medical literature, it has been referred to as 'talipes', coming from Latin roots, where 'talus' means ankle and 'pes' means foot. Historically, clubfoot was a misunderstood condition, often leading to stigmatization, but advances in Pediatric Orthopedics have improved understanding and treatment options. In ancient texts, it was sometimes associated with magical or superstitious beliefs, but today it is recognized as a manageable congenital deformity with effective therapeutic interventions.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,435, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.