Hexadactyly

/ˌhɛksəˈdæktɪli/ noun

Definition

The condition of having six digits or fingers, typically occurring as a genetic variation or developmental anomaly.

Etymology

From Greek 'hex-' (six) + 'daktylos' (finger) + '-ly' (condition/state). This medical terminology solidified in the 20th century as genetics became a rigorous science.

Kelly Says

Hexadactyly has appeared in human populations worldwide and throughout history—some royal families even kept detailed records of it, which actually helped early geneticists understand inheritance patterns.

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