noun
phalanx
A bone in a finger or toe.
Each phalanx helps give a finger its shape and support.
Etymology
The Greek word for a ranked formation was also applied to the finger bones. Their sequence suggests units arranged in an orderly row.
More examples
- The X-ray shows a fracture in the middle phalanx.
- The big toe has two phalanges.
- A splint protects the broken phalanx while it heals.
Forms
phalanx · phalanges
phalangeal adjective — Relating to finger or toe bones.
Similar words
- bone
- A broader term, not limited to fingers and toes.