Thumb: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the short, thick first digit on the human hand.

• I accidentally hit my thumb with a hammer.
• He gave a thumbs up to show approval.

Used in more formal or scientific contexts to refer to any of the fingers or toes.

• Humans have ten digits in total.
• The doctor examined all the digits on her hand.

Often used in scientific or anatomical discussions to describe the unique characteristic of the human thumb, allowing it to touch all other fingers.

• The opposable thumb is a key feature of human evolution.
• Primates also have opposable thumbs.

A technical or anatomical term for the thumb, used in medical or scientific writing.

• The injury was to the pollex of her right hand.
• Anatomically, the pollex has a high degree of dexterity.

Informally indicating approval or disapproval, often using a gesture.

• He gave a thumbs up to show agreement
• She got a thumbs down for her idea

Formally agreeing or accepting something, often in official or administrative contexts.

• The manager has to approve the budget
• The committee approved the new policy

Indicating, often non-verbally, that something is about to happen or is the correct action to take.

• She signaled the waiter to come over
• The coach signaled to start the play

Publicly supporting or recommending something or someone, often used in marketing or public statements.

• The celebrity endorsed the new product
• The politician endorsed the candidate for mayor