How Do You Spell METACARPOPHALANGEAL?

Pronunciation: [mˌɛtəkˈɑːpəfˌalɐnd͡ʒˌi͡əl] (IPA)

The word "metacarpophalangeal" refers to the joints between the bones of the hand and fingers. At first glance, this word may seem daunting to spell, but its pronunciation can be easily broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is "meh-tuh-kahr-puh," followed by "foh-lan-juhl," and ending with "ee-uhl." In essence, it can be pronounced as "meh-tuh-kahr-puh-foh-lan-juh-lee." With practice and a little guidance, pronouncing and spelling "metacarpophalangeal" won't seem as intimidating.

METACARPOPHALANGEAL Meaning and Definition

1. The term "metacarpophalangeal" refers to the joints linking the metacarpal bones of the hand with the proximal phalanges of the fingers. Specifically, it denotes the five joints found in each hand, allowing for flexion and extension of the fingers.

   To further elucidate, "metacarpophalangeal" is derived from three anatomical components: "meta-", meaning beyond or after; "carpo-", relating to the carpal bones in the wrist; and "phalanx", signifying a bone in the finger or toe. The prefix "meta-" portrays the position of the metacarpals being beyond the carpal bones, emphasizing their location in the hand. The element "carpo-" acknowledges their articulation with the carpal bones, further associating the joint with the hand structure. Lastly, the "phalangeal" component identifies the structural relationship between the metacarpals and the phalanges, firmly establishing the anatomical significance of the term.

   The metacarpophalangeal joints are highly important for the function and mobility of the hand. They allow for a wide range of movements, such as flexion, extension, adduction, and abduction of the fingers, which are fundamental for grasping, gripping, and manipulating objects. These joints are crucial for daily activities, fine motor skills, and many specialized tasks requiring dexterity.

2. Relating to the metacarpus and the phalanges, noting the articulations between them.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for METACARPOPHALANGEAL

• netacarpophalangeal
• ketacarpophalangeal
• jetacarpophalangeal
• mwtacarpophalangeal
• mstacarpophalangeal
• mdtacarpophalangeal
• mrtacarpophalangeal
• m4tacarpophalangeal
• m3tacarpophalangeal
• meracarpophalangeal
• mefacarpophalangeal
• megacarpophalangeal
• meyacarpophalangeal
• me6acarpophalangeal
• me5acarpophalangeal
• metzcarpophalangeal
• metscarpophalangeal
• metwcarpophalangeal
• metqcarpophalangeal
• metaxarpophalangeal

Etymology of METACARPOPHALANGEAL

The word "metacarpophalangeal" is derived from several Greek roots.

"Meta" comes from the Greek word "meta", meaning "between" or "after".

"Kara" comes from the Greek word "karpos", meaning "wrist".

"Phalanx" comes from the Greek word "phalanx", which has a primary meaning of "battle array" but is also used to refer to the bones of the finger or toe.

"And" is a connective word.

"Peira" comes from the Greek word "peira", meaning "end" or "tip".

"Allo" is a combining form of the Greek word "allos", meaning "other" or "different".

Therefore, "metacarpophalangeal" can roughly be translated as "between the wrist bones and the bones of the finger or toe".