ambidexter

noun am·bi·dex·ter \ ¦ambə¦dekstə(r) , ¦aam- \

Definition of ambidexter

plural -s

1 a : one that takes bribes or fees from both sides

b archaic : one that practices duplicity

2 obsolete : one that uses both hands with equal facility

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Origin and Etymology of ambidexter

in sense 1, from Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from ambidexter, adjective, from Late Latin, skillful with both hands; in sense 2, from Late Latin, from ambidexter, adjective

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1598

in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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ambidexter

adjective \ " \

Definition of ambidexter

archaic

: ambidextrous

Origin and Etymology of ambidexter

Medieval Latin & Late Latin; Medieval Latin, double-dealing, from Late Latin, skillful with both hands (translation of Greek amphoterodexios), from ambi- + dexter on the right, skillful

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1613

in the meaning defined above

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