index finger

noun

: the finger next to the thumb

called also forefinger

Examples of index finger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the other side, an index finger pointing straight to the sky suggests a warning, a call to attention. — Lavender Au, ARTnews.com, 21 Sep. 2026 Mold rice up and over filling to create a sphere (filling should not be visible), then press firmly with index finger and thumb to form into a triangle. — Diana Yen, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 Sep. 2026 She was bitten on her index finger and rushed to a nearby hospital by one of her neighbors. — Lauren Pozen, CBS News, 24 Aug. 2026 Instead, with an inadvertent point of his right index finger, Espada accidentally removed him from the game. — Chandler Rome, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for index finger

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of index finger was in 1849

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Index finger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/index%20finger. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

index finger

noun
: the finger next to the thumb

Medical Definition

index finger

noun
: the finger next to the thumb

called also forefinger

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