car·pus / ˈkärpəs/ • n. (pl. -pi / -ˌpī; -ˌpē/ ) the group of small bones between the main part of the forelimb and the metacarpus in terrestrial vertebrates. The eight bones of the human carpus form the wrist and part of the hand, and are arranged in two rows.

carpus The wrist (or corresponding part of the forelimb) in terrestrial vertebrates, consisting of a number of small bones (carpals). The number of carpal bones varies with the species. The rabbit, for example, has two rows of carpals, the first (proximal) row containing three bones and the second (distal) row five. In humans there are also eight carpals. This large number of bones enables flexibility at the wrist joint, between the hand and forelimb. See also pentadactyl limb.

carpus (kar-pŭs) n. the eight bones of the wrist (see illustration). The carpus articulates with the metacarpals distally and with the ulna and radius proximally.

carpus The wrist joint, which in a bird forms the outer joint of the wing.