Chiropody
/kaɪˈrɒp.ə.di/noun
The treatment of disorders of the feet, especially by a chiropodist.
Did you know?Chiropody comes from Greek roots meaning “hand-foot,” a bizarrely literal name that reflects the old idea of treating feet as if they were handled by skilled hands, almost like a ritual craft.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
χείρ (cheír)
“hand”
Ancient Greek
Greek
πούς (poús)
“foot”
Late Greek
Greek
χειροποδία (kheiropodía)
“foot treatment; treatment by hand”
17th Century
English
chiropody
“the treatment of the feet, especially by manual care”
Modern English
English
chiropody
“the treatment of disorders of the feet, especially by a chiropodist”
Explore more surprising origins