THUMB

Etymology

The word 'thumb' originates from Old English 'thūma', meaning the first finger of the hand.

Definition

The thumb is the short, thick digit of the human hand that is opposable to the other fingers, allowing greater freedom of movement and precision in gripping objects.

Historical Context

Throughout history, the thumb has been recognized as a crucial anatomical feature that distinguishes humans from other primates, enabling the development of advanced tool use and fine motor skills.

Cultural Significance

The thumb has cultural significance in various societies, symbolizing strength, dexterity, and even approval through gestures like the 'thumbs up'.

Related Concepts

The thumb is closely related to concepts of opposability, grip strength, and manual dexterity in fields such as anatomy, biology, and anthropology.

See Also

• Finger
• Hand anatomy
• Opposable thumb