noun
- Small muscles in the hand or foot that flex the fingers or toes at the knuckles while extending them at the joints farther out.
Usage: anatomy; plural form; singular is lumbrical; technical/medical term
Examples
- The lumbricals are responsible for the fine motor control needed to write with a pen.
- Damage to the lumbricals can affect a person's grip strength and dexterity.
- Physical therapists often work with patients to strengthen their lumbricals after hand injuries.
- The lumbricals in your feet help you maintain balance while walking.
- Pianists develop strong lumbricals through years of practice and training.