prepollex

[pri-pol-eks]

noun

plural

prepollices 

1. a rudimentary additional digit on the preaxial side of the thumb of certain amphibians and mammals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prepollex¹

From New Latin, dating back to 1885–90; pre-, pollex

Example Sentences

Some glassfrogs have the additional structure present in various anuran hands known as the prepollex, sometimes called the pseudothumb.

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There’s been substantial interest in the idea that the prepollex might represent the true digit I – if so, this would mean that at least some anurans still have five digits.

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Recent embryological studies seem to show that this isn’t the case, and that the prepollex is a wholly novel structure.

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A survey of prepollex and prehallux variation in anuran limbs.

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Note the variation in prepollex form, as well as the T-shaped terminal phalanges and the distinctive flange on metacarpal III.

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