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finger
The word carries a strong tactile association, evoking the sensation of precise, delicate touch. While it is a neutral anatomical term, when used as a verb, it often shifts toward a suspicious or intrusive connotation, suggesting a lack of permission or a secretive action. In a social or legal context, the act of fingering someone implies a definitive pointing of blame. This usage is more colloquial and carries a sense of betrayal or exposure, contrasting with formal terms like identify or testify.
Countable when referring to the individual digits on a hand. Uncountable when referring to the act of touching or identifying in a general sense.
Meanings
One of the four slender digits of the hand, excluding the thumb.
"He wore a gold ring on his ring finger."
To touch or feel something with the fingers, often in a cautious or illicit manner.
"The thief began to finger the jewelry in the display case."
To identify someone as a criminal or a culprit.
"The witness fingered the suspect in the police lineup."