The word "pelmatogram" is spelled as /pɛlˈmætəˌɡræm/. The first syllable is pronounced as /pɛl/ with a short "e" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as /ˈmæt/ with a short "a" sound, and the third syllable is pronounced as /əˌɡræm/ with a schwa sound. The word refers to a footprint left in wet clay or mud. The spelling of the word is unique, and it may be difficult to remember without breaking it down into its phonetic components.
A pelmatogram is a term commonly used in forensic science and criminal investigation to refer to the traces and imprints left by the feet of an individual on various surfaces. Derived from the Greek words "pelma" (meaning sole of the foot) and "graphein" (meaning to write), a pelmatogram essentially captures the impression or "writing" left behind when a person steps or walks on a particular surface.
Often employed in footprint analysis, a pelmatogram provides valuable information about the unique characteristics of an individual's feet, including the size, shape, arch structure, and patterns of their footprints. These footprints can be impressions made in various materials such as soil, dust, sand, snow, or even on hard surfaces like tiles or pavement.
Forensic experts and investigators use pelmatograms to compare and identify potential suspects by examining the distinct features present in their footprints. These features can include ridges, lines, or any other distinguishing marks present on the sole, which can aid in establishing a connection between a specific individual and a particular crime scene. Additionally, analysis of pelmatograms can also be utilized for identifying shoe types or patterns, which further helps narrow down potential suspects.
By carefully documenting, photographing, and preserving pelmatograms, investigators can effectively utilize this valuable evidence to support criminal investigations, reconstruct events, and contribute to the overall understanding of an incident or crime scene.
An imprint of the sole of the foot, made by resting the inked foot on a sheet of paper, or by pressing the greased foot on a plaster-of-Paris paste.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word pelmatogram is formed from combining two Greek roots: pelma meaning sole of the foot and gramma meaning something written or drawn. Hence, the etymology of pelmatogram breaks down as follows: pélema (sole of the foot) + grámma (something written or drawn) = pelmatogram.