Fist

A fist is the shape your hand makes when you bend your fingers inward against your palm and hold them tightly together. This is called making or clenching a fist. You fold your fingers into the center of your palm and then place your thumb over the middle part of your hand.

There is also an "open" fist, where you hold your thumb against the side of your index finger instead of wrapping it around your fingers. People use a closed fist to tap gently or hit a surface. An open fist is used to tap very lightly with a finger.

In some English-speaking areas, people may call a fist a "nieve" or a "neef."

Physiology and neurology

Humans are special because of how they can make a fist. Most animals have long palms and short thumbs, but humans have short palms and long thumbs. This makes it easy for us to clench our fists.

Some studies show that making a fist can help people remember things. It can also help people feel better when they are stressed or worried, by keeping their mind busy with moving their muscles.

Boxing

In boxing and other martial arts like karate, kung fu, and taekwondo, learning how to make a fist properly is important for punching. Many people do not form their fists correctly, which can lead to injuries. This can hurt the bones near the pinky and ring finger.

Other uses

The raised fist is a sign that means standing up for what you believe in and working together.

Some things that use the word "fist" in their name include a special greeting called the fist bump.