finger

finger [fiŋ′gər]

n.

[ME < OE, akin to Ger finger, Goth figgrs, prob. < IE base * penkwe, FIVE]

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

5.

a) the breadth of a finger (³/ ₄ inch to 1 inch), as in measuring whiskey in a glass

b) Now Rare the length of a man's middle finger (about 4¹/ ₂ inches)

6. Mech. a projecting part coming into contact with another part and controlling its motion

vt.

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

a) to play (an instrument, chord, etc.) by using the fingers in a certain way or sequence on strings, keys, etc.

b) to mark (a score) with directions for the way to use the fingers

vi.

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, etc.) like a finger

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burn one's fingers

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

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give someone the finger Slang

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

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have a finger in the pie

1. to help do something; participate

2. to be meddlesome

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have one's fingers crossed or keep one's fingers crossed

to hope for or against something

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lift a finger

to make even the slightest effort

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put one's finger on

to indicate or ascertain exactly

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☆ 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.