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.
The slugger — who has 36 homers this season — was hit on the right index finger by a pitch against the Detroit Tigers on Monday. David Brandt, Chicago Tribune, 31 July 2025 Deflate dark circles: Place thumbs and index fingers near the temples, stretch the skin, then slowly and consciously blink the eyelids. Federico Chiara, Vogue, 23 July 2025 When the family welcomed a new grandson in 2019, Raleigh held the infant in an easy chair, allowing the infant to wrap its hand around his index finger. Andrew Greif, NBC news, 15 July 2025 The tool is held like a chunky Sharpie, with the index finger resting on a button that can be switched between a press-and-hold precision mode for detailing and trimming work or a continuous mode for chiseling and carving. New Atlas, 2 June 2025 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 22 Aug. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on index finger

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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