Thumb

Definition

Thumb refers to the short, thick first digit of the human hand, set lower and apart from the other four and opposable to them.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /θʌm/
• Respelling: THUM (with "THUM" rhyming with "gum" and "rum")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /θʌm/
• Respelling: THUM (similar to American English, with "THUM" rhyming with "gum" and "rum")

In both dialects, "thumb" is pronounced with the initial "th" sound, as in "this," followed by a short "u" sound, as in "gum." The pronunciation of "thumb" is consistent between American and British English.

Etymology

The word "thumb" comes from the Old English "þūma", which means "the thick (or stout) finger". The terms "thimble" and "thumble" are related.

Derivatives

• Thumbs-up
• Thumbnail
• Thumbtack
• Thumbscrew
• Thumbprint

Synonyms

• Pollex (specifically for the digit)
• Digit
• Opposable finger

Antonyms

• Pinky
• Little finger
• Ring finger

Usage

• "Thumb" can be used both as a noun, referring to the digit itself, and as a verb, indicating actions like "thumbing through a book".
• It has found its way into various idioms and expressions, like "under one's thumb" or "stick out like a sore thumb".

Related Terms

• Finger
• Hand
• Pollex

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Human Anatomy: The first and shortest digit of the human hand, separate from the other four fingers and opposable to them, useful for grasping objects.
• Example: He hurt his thumb while playing basketball.

• Representation or Resemblance: Anything resembling or likened to a thumb in shape, use, or relative position.
• Example: The joystick had a small thumb rest for better grip.

Verb

• Press, Move, or Touch: To press, move, or touch something with one's thumb.
• Example: She thumbed the pages of the book impatiently.

• Hitchhike: To solicit or get (a ride) by pointing one's thumb in the direction one wishes to go.
• Example: He decided to thumb his way to the city after missing the bus.