fist

¹ American  

[fist] / fɪst /

noun

1. the hand closed tightly, with the fingers doubled into the palm.

2. Informal. the hand.

3. Informal. a person's handwriting.

4. Printing. index.

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verb (used with object)

1. to make (one's hand) into a fist.

2. to grasp in the fist.

fist ² American  

[fahyst] / faɪst /

noun

1. feist.

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fist British  

/ fɪst /

noun

1. a hand with the fingers clenched into the palm, as for hitting

2. Also called: fistful.  the quantity that can be held in a fist or hand

3. an informal word for hand index

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verb

1. (tr) to hit with the fist

fist Idioms  

1. see hand over fist.

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Etymology

Origin of fist

before 900; Middle English; Old English fȳst; cognate with German Faust fist; perhaps akin to five

Example Sentences

After it was announced, the biggest celebration came from Mendoza, who jumped with excitement, smiled from ear to ear and pumped his fist as he swarmed his center with the rest of his teammates.

From Los Angeles Times

“He goes up to Albany with the political will in his fist and the wind at his back,” said former New York City Councilman Justin Brannan.

From The Wall Street Journal

The game ended with a sudden outburst from Carlsen, who struck the table with his fist before offering Gukesh a swift handshake and leaving the playing area.

From BBC

One staffer took his paperwork and drove away in a golf cart, fist in the air.

From The Wall Street Journal

The only visual I saw was Grandpa Simpson shaking his fist at clouds.

From Salon

Related Words

• clenched fist
• hand
• paw