Metacarpal: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'metacarpal' comes from the Greek roots 'meta,' meaning 'beyond,' and 'carpus,' meaning 'wrist.'
• The term first appeared in medical texts in the early 18th century, evolving from Latin and Greek anatomy terminology.

Anatomy

• Humans typically have five metacarpal bones in each hand, one for each finger.
• These bones are numbered from one to five, starting with the thumb as the first metacarpal.
• Metacarpals play a crucial role in hand function, allowing for grip and finger movement.

Sports Medicine

• Injuries to the metacarpals are common in contact sports, often resulting from punching an object.
• Fractures in these bones can affect an athlete's performance, especially in sports like boxing and martial arts.

Evolution

• The structure of metacarpals in humans is an adaptation that allows for a strong grip, helping in tool use.
• Many primates share similar metacarpal structures, highlighting evolutionary links between species.

Cultural Significance

• Artistically, the orientation and movement of the metacarpals can influence styles of painting and sculpture through gestures.
• Metacarpals are sometimes used in hand-based rituals in various cultures, emphasizing the hand's importance in human interaction.

Positioned at #23,458, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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