Definition

1. Noun:
   • The finger next to the thumb: The index finger is the first finger of the hand, located between the thumb and the middle finger. It is often used for pointing or indicating.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • She pointed at the map with her index finger.
  • He raised his index finger to his lips, signaling for quiet.

Advanced Usage

• "Index finger" in measurement: Sometimes used informally to describe a unit of length roughly equal to the width of a finger.
  • The gap was only about an index finger wide.

Variants and Related Words

• Forefinger: A common synonym for the index finger.
  • He pressed the button with his forefinger.
• Pointer finger: An informal term for the index finger, emphasizing its use for pointing.
• First finger: Another descriptive term, especially in contexts like music or counting.

Synonyms

• Forefinger: The most direct synonym.
• Pointer: An informal term.
• Trigger finger: A specific term when referring to the finger used to pull a trigger, which is typically the index finger.

Related Phrases

• "On the index finger": Referring to wearing something, like a ring, on that specific finger.
  • She wears her class ring on her index finger.
• "Index finger test": An informal check, e.g., for moisture or texture.
  • He did the index finger test to see if the cake was done.

Related Idioms

• "Point the finger at someone": To accuse or blame someone. This idiom directly references the action of pointing with the index finger.
  • Don't point the finger at me for the mistake.
• "Have a finger in every pie": To be involved in many different activities. While not exclusive to the index finger, it evokes the image of using fingers to be involved.
  • As a consultant, she has a finger in every pie.

Noun

1. the finger next to the thumb