Ankylodactylia

/ˌæŋkɪloʊdækˈtɪliə/ noun

Definition

A medical condition where the fingers or toes are stiff or permanently bent due to joint fusion or abnormal development.

Etymology

From Greek 'ankylo-' (bent, stiff) and 'daktylos' (finger), plus '-ia' (medical condition suffix). Describes a congenital or acquired condition affecting digit mobility.

Kelly Says

Some people are born with this, but it can also develop after injuries or from conditions like arthritis. Hand surgeons have developed amazing techniques to carefully separate fused joints and restore movement—it's some of the most delicate surgery possible.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.