palm
UK: pɑːm | US: pɑːm
n. the inner surface of the hand between the wrist and fingers
n. a tropical tree with a straight trunk and large, fan-shaped leaves
vt. to conceal something in the hand, especially as part of a trick
The word "palm" originates from the Latin palma, meaning "palm of the hand" or "palm tree," due to the resemblance of the tree's leaves to an outstretched hand. This dual meaning has persisted in English since the Old English period (palm or palma), reflecting both the anatomical and botanical senses. The verb sense ("to conceal in the hand") emerged in the 17th century, derived from the noun's association with the hand's dexterity.
She held the coin tightly in her palm.
Coconut palms swayed in the ocean breeze.
The magician palmed the card without the audience noticing.
He wiped his sweaty palm on his trousers.
Ancient cultures often used palm leaves for writing.