Thumb

/θʌm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The short, thick first digit of the human hand, which is opposable to the other four digits.

He raised his thumb in approval.

A similar digit in other animals or in certain objects.

The monkey's thumb helped it grip the branch securely.

A projection or protuberance resembling a thumb.

The rock formation had a thumb-like shape.

verb

To press, move, or touch something with the thumb.

She thumbed through the pages of the book.

To give a signal of approval or disapproval by raising or lowering the thumb.

He thumbed up to indicate that everything was okay.

From Old English þūma, related to other Germanic languages.

thumbs up

A gesture indicating approval or agreement.

thumb through

To look through something quickly.

thumb wrestle

A playful competition using the thumbs.

opponent

One who opposes or competes against another.

opposable

Able to be moved to touch the opposite side.

Thumbs up

After the meeting, he gave a thumbs up to show he agreed.

Thumb sucker

The child is a thumb sucker, which can be a comforting habit.