variants also dextrous

Synonym Chooser

How is the word dexterous different from other adjectives like it?

The words adroit and deft are common synonyms of dexterous. While all three words mean "ready and skilled in physical movement," dexterous implies expertness with consequent facility and quickness in manipulation.

unrolled the sleeping bag with a dexterous toss

In what contexts can adroit take the place of dexterous?

The words adroit and dexterous can be used in similar contexts, but adroit implies dexterity but usually also stresses resourcefulness or artfulness or inventiveness.

the magician's adroit response to the failure of her prop won applause

Where would deft be a reasonable alternative to dexterous?

While in some cases nearly identical to dexterous, deft emphasizes lightness, neatness, and sureness of touch or handling.

a surgeon's deft manipulation of the scalpel

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of dexterous The rest of Lamar’s halftime performance showed off the dexterous rhymes for which he’s been known since the early 2010s. Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2025 Like any dexterous toddler, Lindsay would have moved her hands around while riding her mother’s back — but Beryl is missing an eye. Brandon Keim, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2025 This study aimed to investigate whether users could control grip forces applied to two different objects simultaneously with a dexterous artificial hand. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 16 Jan. 2025 It's also fitted out with dexterous hands to expand its capabilities to more delicate tasks, like handling small items with both mitts. New Atlas, 20 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for dexterous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dexterous
Adjective
  • Be sure to check out my handy weekend streaming guide for all the best new shows and movies also.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • That comes in handy when news crews are lining up for interviews.
    CBS News, CBS News, 3 May 2025
Adjective
  • The show’s real draw is its cast, which expands to include Matthew Rhys as a troubled detective, and a skillful adaptation that highlights the glossiest, cleverest elements of classic Christie—and adds a pinch of eros.
    Judy Berman, Time, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Then the animators could take over and finish the rest with their skillful photorealism.
    Bill Desowitz, IndieWire, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The area’s labor pool can satisfy practically any employer’s requirements, from upper management, technical and office workers to skilled employees for the production line.
    Rohit Arora, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025
  • While patients and providers say teletherapy is effective and easier to get than in-person services, experts in the field noted that teletherapy often requires a skilled mental health practitioner trained to pick up subtle communication cues.
    Phillip Reese, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • The look was designed by Tolu Coker, a British-Nigerian designer celebrated for masterful tailoring that fuses masculine aesthetics with feminine silhouettes, brought to life through loud, vivid patterns.
    Essence, Essence, 9 May 2025
  • Draymond Green scored early and orchestrated the Warriors’ masterful defense, coach Steve Kerr adapted on the fly and Jimmy Butler led the offense down the stretch.
    Pueng Vongs, Mercury News, 8 May 2025
Adjective
  • Instant Spa Shower Gift Box: $55 Turn mom’s shower into a spa-like experience with this clever gift set from UncommonGood.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 3 May 2025
  • This is an alternative look at the final four weeks of the league campaign, searching for storylines and narratives that could impact betting markets and provide opportunities for clever wagers.
    Sam Tighe, New York Times, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • This begins with behavior change and includes lifestyle interventions and skill-building programs along with expert support for long-term success.
    Scott Paddock, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.
    Toh Gouttenoire, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Premiering in January 2023, The Traitors has gone on to widespread acclaim, even winning Emmys for Outstanding Reality Competition Program and Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program (Alan Cumming on cunning form).
    Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
  • In real life, most would-be Proud Boys don’t have cunning, progressive housemates who will throw away their gun parts.
    Amy Weiss-Meyer, The Atlantic, 8 May 2025
Adjective
  • The scoop neckline and shoulders also featured some delicate gold hardware to keep things, relatively, safe.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 4 May 2025
  • The necklace is made of high-quality sterling silver that is plated in a delicate rose rhodium.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 3 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Dexterous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dexterous. Accessed 13 May. 2025.

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