manyfingered

Manyfingered is a term used to describe a creature or entity possessing an unusually large number of fingers on its hands or appendages. This characteristic is not common in biological organisms found on Earth, where the typical human hand has five digits.

The concept of manyfingered beings appears in various forms of mythology, folklore, and speculative fiction. In some tales, an excessive number of fingers can be depicted as monstrous or alien, serving to distinguish a creature from more familiar forms and evoke a sense of the uncanny. In other narratives, it might be a neutral or even advantageous trait, enhancing dexterity or providing unique capabilities.

Artists and writers may employ the "manyfingered" motif to create visual or narrative impact. The physical manifestation of such a trait can range from a slight increase in the number of digits to a multitude of slender, elongated fingers. The specific number and arrangement of these fingers often contribute to the overall design and symbolism of the character or being.

While not a scientifically recognized biological classification, "manyfingered" serves as a descriptive adjective in imaginative contexts to highlight a deviation from the norm in the physical anatomy of fictional or mythical entities. It is a way to quickly convey a sense of the unusual or the alien.