Bones of the hand The hand contains 27 bones divided into three main groups: 8 carpals (wrist), 5 metacarpals (palm), and 14 phalanges (fingers). The hamate bone is a small, hook-shaped carpal bone located in the wrist on the ulnar (pinky) side of the hand. (more) What Is a Hamate Bone? Written by Kara Rogers Kara Rogers is the senior editor of biomedical sciences at Encyclopædia Britannica, where she oversees a range of content from medicine and genetics to microorganisms. She joined Britannica in 2006 and... Kara Rogers Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Feb. 13, 2026 •History A hamate is a triangular bone located along the ulnar (pinky) side of the wrist among the carpal bones. It is distinguished by a curved, hooklike projection that extends toward the palm. The hamate bone contributes to the structural boundaries of both the carpal tunnel and Guyon canal, the latter of which protects the ulnar nerve and artery. The hamate bone anchors certain ligaments and muscles in the hand and functions primarily as a pulley...

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