index finger

noun

: the finger next to the thumb

called also forefinger

Examples of index finger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In my belly-of-the-beast moment, the one in which Ted Danson would lift a single index finger to summon his inner resources, the assistant manager Sean Lamping entered the changing room. Joel Stein, New York Times, 15 Feb. 2025 Weathers, acquired from the Padres during the 2023 season, was competent last season, going 5-6 with a 3.63 ERA in 16 starts but missed three months (June through mid September) with an index finger strain. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 4 Feb. 2025 Pressing the thumb against the side of the index finger allows users to drag and drop items. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 28 Oct. 2024 Fatty was coincidentally discussing how snapping turtles bite when the one in his hand lunged with amazing speed and clamped down on his index finger. Mark Price, Orlando Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for index finger 

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of index finger was in 1849

Dictionary Entries Near index finger

Cite this Entry

“Index finger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/index%20finger. Accessed 23 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

index finger

noun
: the finger next to the thumb

Medical Definition

index finger

noun
: the finger next to the thumb

called also forefinger

More from Merriam-Webster on index finger

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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