ambidextrous

[ am-bi-dek-struhs ]

adjective

1. able to use both hands equally well:

   an ambidextrous surgeon.

2. unusually skillful; facile:

   an ambidextrous painter, familiar with all media.

3. double-dealing; deceitful.
4. Slang. bisexual.

ambidextrous

/ ˌæmbɪˈdɛkstrəs; ˌæmbɪdɛkˈstɛrɪtɪ /

adjective

1. equally expert with each hand
2. informal.
   highly skilled or adept
3. underhanded; deceitful

Derived Forms

• ˌambiˈdextrously, adverb
• ambidexterity, noun

Other Words From

• ambi·dextrous·ly adverb
• ambi·dextrous·ness noun
• pseudo·ambi·dextrous adjective
• pseudo·ambi·dextrous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambidextrous¹

First recorded in 1640–50; ambidext(e)r + -ous

Example Sentences

But we’re also making sure there’s a place that they will live also on streaming, so we’re doing ambidextrous programming and selling.

From Los Angeles Times

The Mississippi State freshman is a rare ambidextrous pitcher, the most notable since Pat Venditte appeared in 61 major league games from 2015-20.

From Seattle Times

Among them will be John Catsimatidis, a grocery store magnate who has historically been a politically ambidextrous donor, but who had a long history with Mr. Trump.

From New York Times

The Logitech Signature M650 is an ambidextrous wireless mouse powered by a single AA battery and can last for up to 24 months without needing a new one.

From The Verge

This ambidextrous mouse sports a comfortable, ergonomic design and is available in a slew of colors.

From The Verge