hallux

[ hal-uhks ]

noun

, Anatomy, Zoology.

, plural hal·lu·ces [hal, -y, uh, -seez].

1. the first or innermost digit of the foot of humans and other primates or of the hind foot of other mammals; great toe; big toe.
2. the comparable, usually backward-directed digit in birds.

hallux

/ ˈhæləks /

noun

1. the first digit on the hind foot of a mammal, bird, reptile, or amphibian; the big toe of man

Word History and Origins

Origin of hallux¹

1825–35; < Late Latin ( h ) allux, for Latin hallus, by association with pollex thumb

Word History and Origins

Origin of hallux¹

C19: New Latin, from Late Latin allex big toe

Example Sentences

“This would allow me to treat refugees with minor disabilities, flat feet or hallux valgus toes, or people with diabetes who need soft soles,” he said.

From New York Times

Only 6% of those buried between the 11th and 13th Centuries had bunions - or hallux valgus - in which the big toe angles outward and a bony protrusion forms at its base.

From BBC

The medical term for bunions is hallux valgus.

From US News

These enlarged foot claws and mobile hallux suggest that Balaur might have have been good at climbing and perching.

From Scientific American

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus, is a painful deformity that develops at the base of the big toe.

From New York Times