1. able to be placed opposite the fingers of the same hand
Usage: anatomy; typically used to describe thumbs
2. capable of being resisted or contested
Usage: formal

Examples

• Humans have opposable thumbs, which allows them to grasp objects with precision.
• The opposable thumb is one of the key features that distinguishes primates from other mammals.
• Pandas have a pseudo-opposable thumb that helps them grip bamboo.
• The lawyer argued that the evidence was opposable on several grounds.
• Her decision seemed opposable given the circumstances.
• Without opposable thumbs, many animals cannot manipulate tools effectively.