Wrist: meaning, definitions and examples

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wrist

 

[ rɪst ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

body part

The joint connecting the hand with the forearm. The wrist is composed of eight carpal bones and various connective tissues. It provides flexibility and support to the hand.

Synonyms

carpus, forearm joint.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wrist

This appears to be a duplicate and is covered above.

forearm joint

A more technical and precise term that might be used in medical contexts to describe the joint connecting the forearm to the hand. Less commonly used in everyday language.

  • The patient is suffering from pain in the forearm joint.
  • The surgeon carefully examined the forearm joint.
carpus

Used in medical, anatomical, or scientific contexts to refer to the complex of eight bones forming the wrist.

  • The radiograph showed a fracture in the carpus.
  • The carpus is essential for the flexibility of the hand.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a bracelet on her wrist.
  • He injured his wrist while playing tennis.
Context #2 | Noun

watch

A band worn around the wrist, typically to display the time. Watches can be analog or digital, and come in various styles and materials.

Synonyms

bracelet watch, timepiece.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wrist

The word 'wrist' is mainly used to refer to the part of the body that connects the hand to the arm. It is anatomical in nature.

  • She wore a bracelet on her wrist.
  • He twisted his wrist while playing tennis.
timepiece

The term 'timepiece' is a more formal and often luxurious way to refer to a device that tells time, including watches and clocks. It can imply a higher level of craftsmanship.

  • The vintage timepiece was auctioned for a high price.
  • Collectors often seek rare and unique timepieces.

Examples of usage

  • She received a gold watch for her birthday.
  • He checked his watch before leaving.
Context #3 | Verb

strike

To hit or strike with a quick, sharp motion of the hand or fingers. It can also refer to a sudden, sharp pain in the wrist area.

Synonyms

hit, strike.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wrist

This word refers to the joint connecting the hand with the forearm. It is typically used in medical, anatomical, or casual contexts when discussing the body.

  • She wore a bracelet on her wrist
  • He injured his wrist while playing tennis
hit

Use this word to describe a physical impact or forceful contact with an object or person. It can be used in various contexts, such as sports, incidents, and general life situations.

  • The baseball player hit the ball out of the park
  • She accidentally hit her head on the door frame
strike

This word is used to describe a more forceful or deliberate action of hitting something or someone. It is often used in the context of physical actions, military operations, or even interruptions (as in worker's strike). It can have a more intense or formal connotation.

  • The boxer struck his opponent with a powerful punch
  • The union decided to strike over unfair working conditions

Examples of usage

  • She accidentally wristed the ball into the goal.
  • He winced in pain as he felt a sharp wrist.

Translations

Translations of the word "wrist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pulso

🇮🇳 कलाई

🇩🇪 Handgelenk

🇮🇩 pergelangan tangan

🇺🇦 зап'ястя

🇵🇱 nadgarstek

🇯🇵 手首

🇫🇷 poignet

🇪🇸 muñeca

🇹🇷 bilek

🇰🇷 손목

🇸🇦 معصم

🇨🇿 zápěstí

🇸🇰 zápästie

🇨🇳 手腕

🇸🇮 zapestje

🇮🇸 úlnliður

🇰🇿 білезік

🇬🇪 ხელის მაჯა

🇦🇿 bilək

🇲🇽 muñeca

Etymology

The word 'wrist' originated from the Old English word 'wrist', which means 'the joint or part of the hand between the hand proper and the forearm'. The term has been used for centuries to refer to the joint that connects the hand with the forearm. The wrist plays a crucial role in the movement and flexibility of the hand, making it an essential part of the human body.

See also: wristband, wristbands, wristlet, wristlets, wristwatch.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,265 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.