# wrist

/ˈɹɪst/ (US) · /ɹˈɪst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wrist
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. anatomy

noun · CEFR A2

the joint that connects your hand to your arm.

For teachers: the anatomical joint connecting the distal end of the forearm to the carpus of the hand.

- She wore a silver watch on her left wrist every day.
- The surgeon explained that the fracture was located at the base of the wrist, requiring a small plate to stabilize the joint during recovery.

### 2. engineering

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a pin or joint in a machine that allows parts to move like a human wrist.

For teachers: a stud, pin, or mechanical joint that serves as a journal or pivot point, often in robotic or automotive assemblies.

- The robot's wrist allows it to turn the screwdriver in tight spaces.
- The mechanical arm features a three-axis wrist that provides the dexterity necessary for high-precision welding on the assembly line.

### 3. to hit a wrist shot

verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to hit a ball or puck with a quick movement of the wrist.

For teachers: to execute a shot, particularly in ice hockey or field hockey, using a rapid flicking motion of the wrists rather than a full swing.

- The player managed to wrist the puck into the top corner of the net.
- He chose to wrist the ball past the defender rather than taking a full power shot, catching the goalkeeper off guard with the sudden change in pace.

## Examples

- He wore a silver watch on his left wrist.
- The tennis player wore a supportive brace on her wrist to prevent further injury during the tournament.
- Repetitive strain injuries often manifest in the wrist due to the constant, small-scale movements required for typing and mouse operation over extended periods.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.