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.
The cashier responded by extending his thumb, index finger, and pinky finger while keeping his middle and ring fingers curled against his palm. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 28 Apr. 2026 The digital kit recommended a size 12 for the same left index finger. Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 28 Apr. 2026 Before Brubaker’s next pitch, rookie catcher Daniel Susac held up a single index finger. Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 16 Apr. 2026 Angels rookie right-hander George Klassen (0-1), making his second big league start, left in the third inning because of a bruised nail on his right index finger. CBS News, 11 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Index finger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/index%20finger. Accessed 3 May. 2026.

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster