pollex

views updated May 23 2018

pollex The innermost digit on the forelimb of a tetrapod vertebrate. It contains two phalanges (see pentadactyl limb) and in humans and higher primates it is the thumb, which is opposable (i.e. capable of facing and touching the other digits) and gives the hand greater manipulating ability. In some mammals a pollex is absent. Compare hallux.

A Dictionary of Biology

pollex

views updated Jun 11 2018

pollex The thumb. In the pentadactyl fore limb, it is the digit on the side of the radius, often shorter than the other digits.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

pollex

views updated May 17 2018

pollex (pol-eks) n. (pl. pollices) the thumb.

A Dictionary of Nursing

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