What does syndactyl mean?
A syndactyl is a congenital condition in which two or more fingers or toes are joined together, either by a thin membrane or by more substantial tissue. It may occur in humans and in various animals, particularly mammals and birds. The word can also serve as an adjective: a syndactyl hand has joined digits, while a syndactyl animal is one whose toes are partly or completely fused. Syndactyly, the more common noun for the condition itself, is related to several genetic syndromes and can occur alone or as part of a broader developmental disorder. The term is mainly used in medicine, genetics, anatomy, and zoology. Its name comes from Greek elements meaning “together” and “finger,” directly reflecting the joining of digits. Although historically the condition has sometimes been associated with omens or symbolic imagery, its modern use is clinical and descriptive rather than superstitious.
A congenital condition in which two or more digits are joined or fused by tissue.
"Radiographs confirmed a simple syndactyl involving the fourth and fifth fingers."
The related noun syndactyly is more usual when referring to the condition as a medical diagnosis.
Having two or more digits joined or fused.
"The specimen had a syndactyl foot with three partially joined toes."
Chiefly used in medical, anatomical, and zoological descriptions.
Usually refers to animals or individual affected body parts that have fused digits.
"Two rare syndractyls were born at the zoo last spring."
Syndactyl comes from Greek words meaning “together” and “finger,” a fitting description of digits that are joined together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of syndactyl
Syndactyl was formed in the early 19th century from Greek syndaktulos, meaning “having fingers joined together.” Its elements are syn-, meaning “together,” and daktylos, meaning “finger.” The same Greek root also underlies dactyl and related names for animals characterized by the number of toes on each foot.
Related word forms
How syndactyl is actually used
This is primarily a medical and zoological term. In medicine, the condition is often called syndactyly; as an adjective, the word is commonly used in species names and anatomical descriptions.