Palm

Definition

Palm primarily refers to the inner surface of the hand between the wrist and the fingers, but it can also denote a type of tropical tree with a single tall stem and fan-shaped leaves.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɑlm/
• Respelling: PAHM (with "PAHM" as in "father," the 'l' is silent)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɑːm/
• Respelling: PAHM (similar to American English, with "PAHM" as in "father," the 'l' is also silent)

In both dialects, "palm" places the stress on the single syllable, "PAHM," with the 'l' traditionally being silent. The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, emphasizing the deep 'ah' sound.

Etymology

From Old English palm, pælm, from Latin palma ("palm of the hand"), owing to the palm tree's leaves resembling the fingers of a hand.

Derivatives

• Palmist
• Palmistry
• Palmy
• Palmate
• Palmation

Synonyms

• Hand
• Frond (in the context of trees)
• Mitt

Antonyms

• Back (of the hand)
• Sole (of the foot)
• Trunk (of a tree)

Usage

• Refers to the part of the hand that's used for holding, touching, or feeling.
• Denotes a family of trees that thrive in warm climates and are known for their characteristic shape and fronds.
• In verb form, it signifies the act of holding or manipulating something with the hand, often surreptitiously.

Related Terms

• Fingers
• Wrist
• Coconut
• Date (type of palm tree)
• Handshake

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The inner aspect of the hand when it's open and facing forward. It extends from the wrist to the base of the fingers.
• Example: "She held the small bird in the cup of her palm."

• A type of tree typical of tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by a tall stem and a crown of large, fan- or feather-like leaves.
• Example: "The beach was lined with tall palm trees, swaying in the breeze."

• A symbol or token of victory or success.
• Example: "The athlete was awarded the palm for his outstanding performance."

Verb

• To conceal something in the hand, as in magic or sleight of hand.
• Example: "The magician palmed the coin and made it disappear."

• To grip or hold something with the palm of the hand.
• Example: "The basketball player easily palmed the ball and dunked it."