hammertoe

[ ham-er-toh ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a clawlike deformity of a toe, usually the second or third, in which there is a permanent flexion of the second and third joints.
2. a toe having such a deformity.

hammertoe

/ ˈhæməˌtəʊ /

noun

1. a deformity of the bones of a toe causing the toe to be bent in a clawlike arch
2. such a toe

Word History and Origins

Origin of hammertoe¹

First recorded in 1885–90; hammer + toe

Example Sentences

In other cases the second toe may be crowded up as a hammertoe.

From Project Gutenberg

Failure to adopt this procedure permits a dropping of the toe, converting it often into a regular hammertoe.

From Project Gutenberg

The upward prominence of a toe (usually the second or third) in a rigid position, is known as hallux flexus or hammertoe.

From Project Gutenberg

The condition described as hammertoe may exist in several or in all of the toes, the great toe being least often involved.

From Project Gutenberg