Phantom limb

/ˈfæn.təm lɪm/ noun

Definition

The vivid sensation that an amputated or missing limb is still present and may be moving or experiencing pain.

Etymology

From Greek 'phantasma' (appearance, phantom) + Old English 'lim' (limb, branch). A ghost limb that isn't there.

Kelly Says

Phantom limb is feeling an arm or leg that isn't there anymore — the brain's body map still has it on file, and it can even hurt. It shows how powerful the brain's map of the body really is.

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