Metacarpal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A metacarpal is one of the five long bones in the hand, connecting the wrist to the fingers. These bones provide structure and support for gripping and movement.
Definition:
Relating to the bones in the hand between the wrist and fingers.
Synonyms:
hand bone, carpal, phalangeal
Part of Speech:
adjective, noun
Antonyms:
metacarpus (contextual opposite), non-skeletal
Common Collocations:
metacarpal bones, metacarpal fracture, metacarpal injury
Derivatives:
metacarpus, metacarpophalangeal
Usage Tips:
Use "metacarpal" to describe bones or injuries in the middle part of the hand.
Common Phrases:
broken metacarpal, metacarpal pain, metacarpal joint
Etymology:
From Greek "meta-" (beyond) + "karpos" (wrist), referring to bones beyond the wrist.
Examples:
- 1. The metacarpal bones support the palm of your hand.
- 2. He fractured his metacarpal while playing basketball.
- 3. The doctor examined her swollen metacarpal joint carefully.
- 4. Metacarpal injuries often require splints for proper healing.