fat-finger

[ fat-fing-ger ]

adjective

1. noting or pertaining to errors made by hitting the wrong key or button on a keyboard, keypad, or number pad:

   fat-finger dialing errors;

   a large number of typos evidencing the fat-finger syndrome.

verb (used with object)

1. to make an error in or on (something) by hitting the wrong key or button:

   I must have fat-fingered my username.

   You can easily fat-finger the tiny keyboard on this device.

fat-finger

verb

1. to make a mistake by pressing the wrong key on a keyboard or number pad
2. to make an error that causes further problems

Word History and Origins

Origin of fat-finger¹

First recorded in 2000–05; so called from using the thumb to type, or accidentally hitting two keys with one finger

Example Sentences

No more hunting for the tiny little arrow with your big fat finger, in other words.

From The Daily Beast

Mr. Lubbock cleared his throat, fitted his fat finger-tips neatly together, and began to be sprightly.

From Project Gutenberg

"Listen, you guys," Okie pounded his fat finger into Sartan's chest.

From Project Gutenberg

"You mustn't be so impatient," soothingly responded Mr. Jayres, laying his fat finger on his fat cheek and smiling softly.

From Project Gutenberg

The transportation magnate wiggled a disgustingly fat finger at him, "I'll arrange for that part of it."

From Project Gutenberg

"Look at him," she said, pointing with her fat finger at my insignificant self and addressing her family.

From Project Gutenberg