dainty-fingered
|dain-ty-fing-ered|
🇺🇸
/ˈdeɪntiˌfɪŋɡərd/
🇬🇧
/ˈdeɪntiˌfɪŋɡəd/
delicate or nimble fingers
Etymology
'dainty-fingered' is a compound of 'dainty' + 'fingered'. 'dainty' originates from Middle English 'daintie' (from Old French 'deintie'), where it meant 'choice, delightful, or delicate'; 'finger' originates from Old English 'finger', from Proto-Germanic '*fingraz' meaning 'finger'.
'dainty' moved from Old French into Middle English as 'daintie' and developed the sense 'delicate' or 'finely made' in Modern English; 'fingered' is formed from Old English 'finger' with the adjectival/participial suffix '-ed'. The compound 'dainty-fingered' arose in English by combining these elements to describe the quality of the fingers or touch.
Initially, 'dainty' often meant 'choice' or 'delightful' (sometimes 'tasty' in older usage); over time it shifted toward 'delicate' or 'finely made.' As a compound, 'dainty-fingered' now specifically conveys 'having delicate or nimble fingers.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having small, delicate fingers or hands; physically dainty in the fingers.
The dainty-fingered violinist wore gloves between movements to protect her hands.
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Adjective 2
having a nimble, light, or skillful touch with the fingers (often implying dexterity or fineness of movement).
Her dainty-fingered technique made the intricate passage sound effortless.
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Last updated: 2025/09/11 16:55