Dexterous: meaning, definitions and examples

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dexterous

 

[ ˈdΙ›kstΙ™rΙ™s ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

physical skill

Dexterous refers to someone who is skillful and proficient in using their hands or body. It can also describe a person who is mentally nimble and adept at handling situations effortlessly.

Synonyms

adept, agile, deft, nimble, skilled.

Examples of usage

  • She is dexterous at playing the piano.
  • His dexterous movements amazed the audience.
  • The dexterous surgeon performed the intricate operation with precision.
Context #2 | Adjective

mental agility

In a mental context, dexterous indicates someone who can think quickly and make sharp, effective decisions. This use emphasizes cognitive skill rather than physical ability.

Synonyms

clever, quick-witted, resourceful, sharp, smart.

Examples of usage

  • Her dexterous mind solved complex problems easily.
  • He displayed a dexterous approach to negotiation.
  • The team benefited from their dexterous leader's quick thinking.

Etymology

The word 'dexterous' originates from the Latin 'dexter', which means 'right' or 'on the right side', historically associated with skill and competence. The concept is related to the dexterity of the right hand, which has been considered more capable in various cultures. The transition from Latin to Middle English saw 'dexterous' emerge in the 14th century, carrying with it the connotations of skillfulness and finesse in task execution. Over time, it evolved to encompass not just physical abilities, but also mental acuity, reflecting the dual nature of skill in both manual and cognitive forms. The derivation from 'dexter' highlights a long-standing association of right-handedness with advantage and proficiency. In modern usage, dexterous is predominantly applied to both physical tasks requiring tactile skill, such as crafts and sports, as well as to describe sharp thinking and adept problem-solving abilities.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,717, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.