dermatoglyphics

American  

[der-mat-uh-glif-iks, dur-muh-tuh-] / dərˌmæt əˈglɪf ɪks, ˌdɜr mə tə- /

noun

1. (used with a plural verb) the patterns of ridges on the inner surface of the hands and feet.

2. (used with a singular verb) the science dealing with the study of these patterns.

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dermatoglyphics British  

/ ˌdɜːmətəʊˈɡlɪfɪks /

plural noun

1. the lines forming a skin pattern, esp on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet

2. (functioning as singular) the study of such skin patterns

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Other Word Forms

• dermatoglyphic adjective

Etymology

Origin of dermatoglyphics

1925–30; dermato- + Greek glýph ( ein ) to carve + -ics

Example Sentences

Called dermatoglyphics, it relies on the assumption that the tiny ridges on a person’s fingertips form permanent, unvarying patterns that are unique to that individual.

From Science Magazine