Finger: meaning, definitions and examples

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finger

[ˈfɪŋɡər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

body part

The part of the hand at the end of the arm on which the nails grow.

Synonyms

digit, index finger, thumb.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
finger	Used to refer to any of the five separate parts at the end of the hand, typically when specificity is not required. He cut his finger while chopping vegetables She wore a ring on her finger
digit	Used in a more formal or anatomical context to refer to fingers and toes collectively. Humans have five digits on each hand and foot Certain primates have opposable digits
thumb	Used to refer specifically to the thick, often shortest digit on the side of the hand, often involved in gripping or giving a thumbs-up. He gave a thumbs-up to show his approval Her thumb was sore after using the game controller all day
index finger	Used when specifically referring to the finger next to the thumb, often in situations involving pointing or indicating. She pointed at the map with her index finger Please place your index finger here for the fingerprint scan

Examples of usage

She pointed at the map with her finger.
He accidentally slammed the car door on his finger.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

measurement

A unit of length, equal to 7/8 inch (2.2 cm).

Synonyms

digit, inch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
finger	Same word as the first entry, typically used in casual conversations. She wore a ring on her middle finger. He has a tattoo on his pinky finger.
inch	Use this term when talking about a unit of measurement. It is not related to body parts but rather to measuring length. The box is twelve inches wide. He grew an inch taller over the summer.
digit	This word is more formal and is often used in medical or anatomical contexts to refer to fingers and toes. The patient's digit was swollen and needed attention. Humans have twenty digits in total, ten on their hands and ten on their feet.

Word

Description / Examples

finger

Same word as the first entry, typically used in casual conversations.

She wore a ring on her middle finger.
He has a tattoo on his pinky finger.

inch

Use this term when talking about a unit of measurement. It is not related to body parts but rather to measuring length.

The box is twelve inches wide.
He grew an inch taller over the summer.

digit

This word is more formal and is often used in medical or anatomical contexts to refer to fingers and toes.

The patient's digit was swollen and needed attention.
Humans have twenty digits in total, ten on their hands and ten on their feet.

Examples of usage

The bookshelf was six feet tall and could hold up to twenty fingers of books.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

touch

To touch or feel with the fingers.

Synonyms

caress, handle, touch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
finger	Can be used in a negative context to imply unwanted or suspicious handling. The thief fingered the jewelry before taking it. The detective noticed someone had fingered the safe.
touch	Used for general physical contact, either with care or a casual intent. Please do not touch the exhibits. She felt a touch on her shoulder.
handle	Best used when referring to physically managing, operating, or controlling an object. He handled the machinery with expertise. She carefully handled the fragile vase.
caress	Appropriate in situations involving gentle, affectionate or romantic touching. She caressed his cheek lovingly. He felt a soft caress on his hand.

Examples of usage

She fingered the fabric to check its quality.
He nervously fingered the ring in his pocket.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'finger', which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
In Latin, 'digitus' means finger, linking fingers to measurement, as in digital counting.
The connection between digits and fingers highlights how humans have used anatomy for counting tools throughout history.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, fingers play a role in hand gestures that convey emotions and ideas, like pointing or waving.
The 'thumbs up' gesture is a global sign for approval, showcasing the cultural importance of fingers in communication.
Certain finger symbols, like the 'OK' sign, have different meanings around the world, illustrating cultural diversity.

Science

Fingers contain multiple bones, tendons, and muscles, enabling a wide range of movements.
The skin on our fingers has a unique texture that enhances our sense of touch, allowing us to feel different textures.
Research indicates that our fingers are highly sensitive and can detect even the slightest vibrations.

Literature

Fingers are often used metaphorically in literature, symbolizing both control and vulnerability, as in phrases like 'fingers on the pulse'.
In many fairy tales and folklore, the finger symbolizes fate or destiny, with stories often involving magical rings or hands.
Famous literary works often describe characters' gestures, focusing on their fingers to express emotions or intentions.

Psychology

The way we use our fingers can reveal our emotional state; for example, tapping fingers often indicates impatience or anxiety.
Research shows that finger movements can enhance memory retention, making hand gestures a learning tool.
Body language involving fingers can influence social interactions, as they often accompany spoken communication to clarify meaning.

Translations

Translations of the word "finger" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dedo

🇮🇳 उंगली

🇩🇪 Finger

🇮🇩 jari

🇺🇦 палець

🇵🇱 palec

🇯🇵 指 (ゆび)

🇫🇷 doigt

🇪🇸 dedo

🇹🇷 parmak

🇰🇷 손가락

🇸🇦 إصبع

🇨🇿 prst

🇸🇰 prst

🇨🇳 手指 (shǒuzhǐ)

🇸🇮 prst

🇮🇸 fingur

🇰🇿 саусақ

🇬🇪 თითი

🇦🇿 barmaq

🇲🇽 dedo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,214, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3211 cry
3212 cable
3213 contractor
3214 finger
3215 locations
3216 mortality
3217 reserves
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