dermatoglyphics

[der-mat-uh-glif-iks, dur-muh-tuh-]

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.

dermatoglyphics

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• dermatoglyphic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of dermatoglyphics¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of dermatoglyphics¹

C20: from _dermato- + Greek gluphē a carving; see _glyph

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.

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