opposition

anatomy

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "opposition" has multiple meanings. In anatomy, it refers to the unique ability of the thumb to move across the palm and touch the tips of the fingers, crucial for grasping and manipulating objects. This opposability is a key characteristic of human hands and those of other primates.12

In a broader sense, "opposition" can mean resistance or a contrary state. This can manifest as hostility, a political party opposing the ruling one, or even the alignment of celestial bodies. It can also describe a state of being fundamentally different or contrary to something else.34

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joint
Sellar joint
This movement is called opposition (i.e., of thumb to fingers). During opposition the thumb is rotated around its long axis; it has been said that human civilization depends upon the opposition of the thumb.
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This movement is called opposition (i.e., of thumb to fingers). During opposition the thumb is rotated around its long axis; it has been said that human civilization depends upon the opposition of the thumb.
Read More