Definition

Noun: 1. A hole designed for a thumb to pass through or rest in: An opening in an object, such as a bowling ball, pottery mug, or tool handle, that is specifically sized and shaped to accommodate a human thumb for grip, control, or support. 2. A tone hole on a woodwind instrument operated by the thumb: A specific hole on instruments like the recorder, clarinet, or saxophone that is opened or closed by the player's thumb to change the pitch of the note being played.

Usage Examples

• The bowler adjusted his grip, placing his thumb securely in the thumbhole of the ball.
• This ceramic mug has a comfortable thumbhole in its handle.
• To play the note B-flat on the recorder, you must cover the thumbhole at the back of the instrument.
• The clarinetist practiced the rapid movement of closing the thumbhole while playing the scale.

Advanced Usage

• "Double thumbhole": A feature on some woodwind instruments, like certain saxophones, that provides two thumb rests or operational holes for different hand positions or key mechanisms.
• In woodworking or tool design, an ergonomic thumbhole can refer to an indentation or groove that provides a secure and comfortable grip for the thumb.

Variants and Related Words

• Thumb rest (noun): A support or ledge for the thumb, often found on musical instruments or cameras, which is related but not necessarily a hole.
• Fingerhole (noun): A general term for any hole meant for a finger. A thumbhole is a specific type of fingerhole.

Synonyms

• Thumb port (specific to some musical contexts)
• Aperture for the thumb
• Thumb grip (refers more to the function than the physical hole)

Related Phrases

• To fit one's thumb in the thumbhole: To insert the thumb into its designated opening.
  • Make sure the thumbhole fits snugly for better control.
• To cover/uncover the thumbhole: The action performed by a woodwind player.
  • The passage requires you to uncover the thumbhole quickly.

Noun

1. a finger hole made to fit the thumb (as in a bowling ball)
2. the hole in a woodwind that is closed and opened with the thumb