What is "dermatoglyphics"

n. 1 The patterns of loops, arches and whorls on the skin of the fingers and feet. 2 The study of such patterns.

n. the study of the whorls and loops and arches in the fingertips and on the palms of the hand and the soles of the feet; "some criminologists specialize in dermatoglyphics"

Dermatoglyphics (from ancient Greek derma=skin, glyph=carving) is the scientific study of fingerprints, lines, mounts, and shapes of hands. Dermatoglyphics refers to the formation of naturally occurring ridges on certain body parts, namely palms, fingers, soles and toes. These are areas where hair usually does not grow and these ridges allow for increased leverage when picking up objects or walking barefoot. The finger prints of both hands are not the same. They do not change size or shape throughout a person's life, except in cases of serious injuries that scar the dermis.

The uniqueness of a person's finger prints have been thought by some to be tied to a person's personality and preferences by analyzing dermatoglyphics. This belief is the basis for the study of palmistry.