Crossword Genius

Hand part with its own rule (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thumb

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'hand part' is the definition.
'thumb' can be an answer for 'part' (thumb is a kind of part). I am not sure about the 'hand' bit.

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for thumb that I've seen before include "Digit (used for making a hitch?)" , "Travel by getting free rides from motorists" , "Tom ___ , traditional hero of English folklore" , "Hitch-hiking digit" , "First digit" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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