fingering

[ fing-ger-ing ]

noun

1. the act of a person who fingers.
2. Music.
   1. the action or method of using the fingers in playing on an instrument.
   2. the indication of the way the fingers are to be used in performing a piece of music.

fingering

¹

/ ˈfɪŋɡərɪŋ /

noun

1. fine wool for knitting

fingering

²

/ ˈfɪŋɡərɪŋ /

noun

1. the technique or art of using one's fingers in playing a musical instrument, esp the piano
2. the numerals in a musical part indicating this

Word History and Origins

Origin of fingering¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; finger, -ing ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of fingering¹

C17: from earlier fingram , perhaps from Old French fin grain fine grain

Example Sentences

He stood over it muttering to himself, thoughtfully fingering a filament of his mustache.

From Literature

A soldier, fingering the trigger of his assault rifle, confronts a group of terrified journalists: “What kind of American are you?” he asks.

From New York Times

Five of those indicted alongside him have pleaded guilty to their crimes, each fingering Pratt as the ringleader.

From Los Angeles Times

Lola kept fingering the broken part of her face as if she couldn’t stop.

From Literature

Mr. Christie noted his pre-electoral career and the experience it give him in fingering Mr. Trump’s pattern of behavior.

From Washington Times