Fingers: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in everyday language to talk about the five extensions on each hand.

• She counted the money with her fingers
• Children often paint with their fingers

A more formal or technical term, often used in medical or scientific contexts to refer to both fingers and toes.

• The patient had six digits on one hand
• In math class, we learned how to count using our digits

A highly technical term used primarily in medical or anatomical discussions to refer to the bones in the fingers and toes.

• The X-ray showed a fracture in one of the phalanges
• The anatomy textbook detailed the structure of the phalanges

Specifically refers to the short, thick first digit on both hands, used for gripping or holding objects.

• She gave a thumbs-up to signal her approval
• It's easier to text with your thumbs

Use when referring to the individual digits on a human hand. This term is commonly used in everyday conversation when talking about body parts or actions involving the hands.

• She counted the money with her fingers.
• He injured two of his fingers in the accident.

Used when referring to the digits on a human hand, especially in casual or everyday conversation.

• She has long, slender fingers
• He hurt his fingers while playing basketball

A formal or medical term used to describe something that is attached to a larger or more important body, often referring to limbs or organs.

• The tail is an appendage that some animals use for balance
• In some cases, a surgical operation might be needed to remove an infected appendage

Often used when talking about sharp, curved nails of animals like cats, birds, or crabs. It can have a somewhat negative or dangerous connotation.

• The cat's claws can be quite sharp
• The eagle uses its claws to catch prey

Generally used to describe a tool or part of an animal (like a crab) that can grab or pinch. It often implies a strong or forceful grip.

• He used a pincer to remove the nail
• The crab's pincers can give a sharp pinch