opposable

Everyday

Able to be placed opposite and pressed against the other fingers, like a human thumb, so that the hand can grip and pick things up. tree →

In the lessons

A science word in lessons on humans, apes and adaptations: «opposable thumbs» let humans, apes and many monkeys hold tools, write and climb. Some animals, like koalas and opossums, have opposable digits on their feet or hands.

Examples

• Humans have opposable thumbs, so we can hold a pencil. tree →
• Try picking up a coin without using your opposable thumb. tree →
• Chimpanzees have opposable thumbs and big toes. tree →
• Opposable thumbs helped early humans to make tools. tree →
• Koalas have two opposable digits for gripping branches. tree →
• Pandas have a special bone that works like an opposable thumb. tree →

Note

Adjective, used almost always in «opposable thumb(s)». From «oppose» (to place against). Nothing to do with being against someone.