index finger

noun

: the finger next to the thumb

called also forefinger

Examples of index finger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
My daughter pushes food onto her fork with her index finger. — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 9 May 2026 He was sidelined from spring training until May 8 by a blister on his left index finger. — CBS News, 25 May 2026 With your thumbs on the screen and your index fingers on the shoulder trigger buttons, much of the weight is going to be carried by your pinky fingers. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026 It's handily located where your right index finger can easily reach it. — New Atlas, 25 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for index finger

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of index finger was in 1849

Rhymes for index finger

See All Rhymes for index finger

Browse Nearby Words

index expurgatorius
index finger
index forest
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Index finger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/index%20finger. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

index finger

noun
: the finger next to the thumb

Medical Definition

index finger

noun
: the finger next to the thumb

called also forefinger

More from Merriam-Webster on index finger

Nglish: Translation of index finger for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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