Dactylosymphysis

/ˌdæktɪloʊˈsɪmfəsɪs/ noun

Definition

A fusion or bony joining of the finger or toe bones, either naturally occurring or resulting from injury or disease.

Etymology

From Greek 'daktylos' (finger) and 'symphysis' (a growing together or natural fusion of bones), describing a permanent joining of digital bones.

Kelly Says

This condition sometimes occurs in people who've suffered severe hand injuries, but it also happens naturally in some animals like birds and aquatic mammals, where fused fingers actually improve function for flying or swimming.

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