finger hole

noun

1. one of a set of holes for the finger on the rotating dial of a telephone.
2. one of two holes or more on a bowling ball for holding the ball.
3. one of a series of holes on a wind instrument for changing the pitch by being opened or closed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of finger hole¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Gloria fumbled a second with the gun, located the finger hole, sent a spurt of light flying across the room.

From Project Gutenberg

Six finger-holes, and one brass key at the upper side, and one finger-hole for the thumb at the opposite side.

From Project Gutenberg

In some of these old settlements there are houses where the door is still opened from without by a "sneck-bant," or "finger-hole."

From Project Gutenberg

At Kadiak and Unalashka the eccentric index-finger hole returns.

From Project Gutenberg

The index-finger hole is very large and eccentric, forming the handle of the "amphora."

From Project Gutenberg