at one's fingertips

phrase

: instantly or readily available

had the answer at his fingertips

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of at one's fingertips was in 1861

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

at one's feet

at one's fingertips

at one's own peril

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“At one's fingertips.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20one%27s%20fingertips. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

at one's fingertips

phrase

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

hector