How Do You Spell POLYDACTYLOUS?

Pronunciation: [pˌɒlɪdˈaktɪləs] (IPA)

Polydactylous is a term used to describe an animal or human that has more than the usual number of digits on their hands or feet. The word is derived from two Greek words: "poly" meaning "many" and "dactylos" meaning "finger". The correct way to pronounce this word is /pɑːlɪdæk'tɪləs/, with the stress placed on the second syllable. The combination of consonants and vowels in "polydactylous" can present a challenge for those unfamiliar with Greek roots, but it can be mastered with practice.

POLYDACTYLOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Polydactylous is an adjective that describes an individual or organism that possesses more than the usual number of digits or fingers on its limbs. The term is derived from the Greek words "poly," meaning "many" or "multiple," and "dactylos," meaning "finger" or "digit." It commonly refers to the condition of having extra fingers or toes, and can be used to describe both humans and animals.

   In humans, polydactylous individuals are born with one or more additional fingers or toes compared to the average number of digits. These extra digits can be fully formed with bones, joints, and nails, or may resemble small, fleshy growths. The occurrence of polydactyly can be hereditary, resulting from a genetic mutation or inheritance pattern, or it can be caused by environmental factors during fetal development.

   Polydactylism is not limited to humans and can occur in various animal species as well. Many mammals, such as cats, dogs, horses, and primates, may exhibit this condition. In cats, for example, polydactyly is commonly found in certain breeds, leading to cats with more than the normal number of toes on their paws. This is often considered a charming and distinctive feature in these feline species.

   Overall, polydactylous is a term that describes a genetic or developmental variation resulting in an anomaly characterized by the presence of additional fingers or toes, beyond the standard number.

Common Misspellings for POLYDACTYLOUS

• oolydactylous
• lolydactylous
• -olydactylous
• 0olydactylous
• pilydactylous
• pklydactylous
• pllydactylous
• pplydactylous
• p0lydactylous
• p9lydactylous
• pokydactylous
• popydactylous
• pooydactylous
• poltdactylous
• polgdactylous
• polhdactylous
• poludactylous
• pol7dactylous
• pol6dactylous

Etymology of POLYDACTYLOUS

The word polydactylous has its roots in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: polys meaning many and daktulos meaning finger or toe. Thus, polydactylous can be translated as having many fingers or toes.

Similar spelling words for POLYDACTYLOUS

• polydactyl,
• polydactyly,
• polydactylus.