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polydactyly

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌpɒlɪˈdæktɪli/

KK: /pɑːlɪˈdæktɪli/

noun
Definition

A condition where a person has more than the usual number of fingers or toes.


Example

The child was born with polydactyly, having six fingers on one hand.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that some people have a condition called polydactyly?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read about that! It's fascinating how some can have extra fingers or toes.
Sloth A
I wonder how it affects their daily life, though.
Sloth B
I guess it depends on the person, but it could be pretty interesting!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
supernumerary
multidactyly
hyperdactyly
Antonyms
adactyly
monodactyly
oligodactyly
Root Explanation

Polydactyly is formed from "poly-" (meaning many) and "dactylos" (meaning fingers or toes). The word describes a condition characterized by having many fingers or toes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') fingers or toes ('dactylos') to remember that polydactyly refers to having extra digits.

Visually Confused Words
platydactyl
oxydactyl
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