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finger definition

fin·ger (fiŋ′gər)

noun

  1. any of the five jointed parts projecting from the palm of the hand; esp., any of these other than the thumb
  2. the part of a glove that covers one of these parts
  3. anything resembling a finger in shape or use
  4. ☆ a rough unit of measure based on
    1. the breadth of a finger ( inch to 1 inch), as in measuring whiskey in a glass
    2. Now Rare the length of a man's middle finger (about 4 inches)
  5. Mech. a projecting part coming into contact with another part and controlling its motion

Etymology: ME < OE, akin to Ger finger, Goth figgrs, prob. < IE base *penkwe, five

transitive verb

  1. to touch or handle with the fingers; use the fingers on
  2. Now Rare to take; steal
  3. ☆ to point out; indicate or designate, specif. in senses of put the finger on (see phrase below)
  4. Music
    1. to play (an instrument, chord, etc.) by using the fingers in a certain way or sequence on strings, keys, etc.
    2. to mark (a score) with directions for the way to use the fingers

intransitive verb

  1. to use the fingers in a certain way or sequence on a musical instrument
  2. to be fingered: said of musical instruments
  3. to extend (out, across, etc.) like a finger
finger Idioms

burn one's fingers

to cause oneself trouble by being too inquisitive, meddlesome, etc.

give someone the finger

Slang
to express anger, contempt, etc. for by gesturing with the middle finger held upright from a clenched fist

have a finger in the pie

  1. to help do something; participate
  2. to be meddlesome

have one's fingers crossed

or keep one's fingers crossed
to hope for or against something

lift a finger

to make even the slightest effort

put one's finger on

to indicate or ascertain exactly

put the finger on

☆ Slang
  1. to identify as for the police; inform on
  2. to indicate as the place to be robbed, victim to be killed, etc.

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