index finger

American  

noun

1. forefinger.

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index finger British  

noun

1. Also called: forefinger.  the finger next to the thumb

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Etymology

Origin of index finger

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

“Making one’s peace with it is not the same as accepting it and being happy with it,” Lindo says, raising an index finger, a gesture he often makes when telling you something he considers important.

From Los Angeles Times

He shook a hand to make the feeling go away, then traced the letters on the spine with his index finger.

From Literature

This measure compares the length of the index finger to the ring finger, a relationship called the 2D:4D ratio.

From Science Daily

It was about as long as her index finger, and slightly thinner than a pencil.

From Literature

Dickie McGinity tapped his long index finger to his temple as if deep in thought, which seemed like a good sign.

From Literature

Related Words

• forefinger
• pointer