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 Words From

• der·mato·glyphic 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.

From Science Magazine