The word "acheiric" is pronounced /ˌeɪˈsɪrɪk/ and is spelled using a combination of Greek and Latin roots. The prefix "a-" means "without" in Greek, while "cheir" means "hand". The Latin suffix "-ic" is added to indicate that the word is an adjective. Therefore, "acheiric" means "without hands" or "having no hands". This word is often used in the field of biology to describe organisms that lack hands or have non-functional hands.
"Acheiric" is an adjective that pertains to the absence or lack of hands or arms. This term is derived from the combination of two Greek words, "a-" meaning "without" and "cheir" meaning "hand." It is typically utilized in medical or biological contexts to describe individuals, organisms, or anatomical structures that do not possess the normal appendages associated with grasping or manipulating objects.
In medical diagnosis, this term helps classify and categorize certain congenital or developmental abnormalities. For instance, individuals with acheiria are born without hands, while those with acheirourgia have the absence of both hands and arms. In a broader sense, "acheiric" can also encompass conditions where individuals have partially formed or non-functional hands.
The term "acheiric" can further extend its meaning metaphorically. In figurative usage, it may refer to the absence or inadequacy of certain skills or abilities. For example, someone lacking manual dexterity or coordination may be described as acheiric in performing specific tasks.
While primarily associated with human anatomy, "acheiric" can describe the limb structure or functioning of other organisms as well. In the context of zoology, this term is used to describe animals, such as certain reptiles or invertebrates, who naturally lack hands or arms.
Overall, "acheiric" describes the state of lacking hands or arms, encompassing various aspects of human anatomy, medical conditions, and zoological features.
Achiric.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.