fingerprint

American  

[fing-ger-print] / ˈfɪŋ gərˌprɪnt /

noun

1. an impression of the markings of the inner surface of the last joint of the thumb or other finger.

2. such an impression made with ink for purposes of identification.

3. any unique or distinctive pattern that presents unambiguous evidence of a specific person, substance, disease, etc.

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verb (used with object)

1. to take or record the fingerprints of.

fingerprint British  

/ ˈfɪŋɡəˌprɪnt /

noun

1. an impression of the pattern of ridges on the palmar surface of the end joint of each finger and thumb

2. any identifying characteristic

3. biochem the pattern of fragments obtained when a protein is digested by a proteolytic enzyme, usually observed following two-dimensional separation by chromatography and electrophoresis

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verb

1. (tr) to take an inked impression of the fingerprints of (a person)

2. to take a sample of (a person's) DNA

fingerprint Cultural  

1. The impression or mark left by the underside of the tips of the fingers or thumbs. The impression is formed by a pattern of ridges on the skin surface. This pattern is unique for each individual and therefore can serve as a means of identification. (Compare DNA fingerprinting.)

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Discover More

Fingerprinting is used extensively in criminal investigation, but it is also used as a means of identification by many organizations.

Etymology

Origin of fingerprint

First recorded in 1855–60; finger + print

Example Sentences

Its size and symmetry provide critical insight into how electrons interact and pair, making it a key fingerprint of the underlying superconducting mechanism.

From Science Daily

When scientists can model these signals with high precision, the resulting data act like detailed "cosmic fingerprints" that reveal how matter is arranged near massive black holes.

From Science Daily

The government already had Kaur’s fingerprints on file, which is why the family was puzzled when they received notice of this appointment.

From Los Angeles Times

And when it does, it will take time for a new CEO to “put their fingerprints” on a strategy and enact it, Rick Patel, an analyst at Raymond James, wrote.

From Barron's

Typically, you authorize this exchange with a face scan, fingerprint reader or a PIN code if your device doesn’t support those biometric options.

From The Wall Street Journal