An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. The terminal part of the forelimb in humans and other primates.
   

2. A part serving the function of or resembling a hand.

Etymology (EN): M.E. O.E. hond, hand “hand; side; power;” cf. O.S., O.Fris., Du., Ger. hand, O.N. hönd, Goth. handus.

Etymology (PE): Dast “hand; strength; superiority;” Mid.Pers. dast; O.Pers. dasta-;
Av. zasta-; cf. Skt. hásta-; Gk. kheir; L. praesto “at hand;” Arm. jern “hand;” Lith. pa-žastis “arm-pit;” PIE *ghes-to-.