forefinger

[ fawr-fing-ger, fohr- ]

noun

1. the first finger next to the thumb.

forefinger

/ ˈfɔːˌfɪŋɡə /

noun

1. the finger next to the thumb Also calledindex finger

Word History and Origins

Origin of forefinger¹

First recorded in 1400–50, forefinger is from the late Middle English word forefyngure. See fore-, finger

Example Sentences

They’re lightweight, attach to your forefinger and fit comfortably in your palm, so you can carry other items and nearly forget they’re there until you need them.

From Los Angeles Times

A lovingly acquired brushed-steel spoon that you can cradle between your forefinger and thumb and use to collect all your tears about everything, everyone, everywhere, because why is it all so hard?

From Los Angeles Times

Cat held out her thumb and forefinger so they were almost touching.

From Literature

“I will administer a tonic to your forefinger. Our Elixir of Light.”

From Literature

In a study published in 2022, Makin used a nerve blocker to temporarily mimic the effect of amputation of the forefinger in her subjects.

From Science Daily