Opposable thumb: meaning, definitions and examples
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opposable thumb
[ əˈpəʊzəbl θʌm ]
anatomy
A thumb that can be placed opposite the fingers of the same hand, allowing for fine motor skills and precision grip.
Synonyms
articulated thumb, flexible thumb, mobile thumb
Examples of usage
- Primates, including humans, have opposable thumbs which distinguish them from other animals.
- The opposable thumb is crucial for tasks such as writing, grasping small objects, and using tools.
- Opposable thumbs provide humans with a significant advantage in manipulating objects and performing intricate tasks.
- The opposable thumb allows for the precision grip needed for activities like sewing and playing musical instruments.
- Having an opposable thumb is considered a defining characteristic of primates.
Translations
Translations of the word "opposable thumb" in other languages:
🇵🇹 polegar opositor
🇮🇳 विरोधी अंगूठा
🇩🇪 opponierbarer Daumen
🇮🇩 ibu jari oposisi
🇺🇦 протиставний палець
🇵🇱 kciuk przeciwstawny
🇯🇵 対向する親指 (たいこうするおやゆび)
🇫🇷 pouce opposable
🇪🇸 pulgar oponible
🇹🇷 karşıt başparmak
🇰🇷 대립하는 엄지손가락
🇸🇦 إبهام معارض
🇨🇿 protivný palec
🇸🇰 protistojný palec
🇨🇳 对生拇指 (duìshēng mǔzhǐ)
🇸🇮 nasproti palec
🇮🇸 andspænis þumalfingur
🇰🇿 қарсы тұрған бас бармақ
🇬🇪 წინააღმდეგობის ცერა
🇦🇿 oppozisiya baş barmaq
🇲🇽 pulgar oponible
Word origin
The opposable thumb is a unique feature of primates, including humans, that has evolved over millions of years. It allows for a wide range of movements and functions, contributing to the dexterity and versatility of the hand. The opposable thumb played a significant role in the development of early tools and technologies, enabling humans to manipulate objects and create complex structures. Its evolutionary history is closely linked to the success of primates in adapting to various environments and mastering fine motor skills.