Extremities

/ɪkˈstrɛmətiz/ noun

Definition

The outermost or farthest parts of something, especially the arms and legs at the ends of a human body.

Etymology

From Latin 'extremus' (outermost, furthest) which comes from 'exterus' (outer). The word has been used since medieval times to describe the body's furthest-reaching parts.

Kelly Says

In Arctic explorers' accounts, extremities—fingers and toes—are often mentioned first as warning signs of frostbite because blood vessels shrink there when your body gets cold to protect your vital organs.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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