ambidextrous
UK: ˌæm.biˈdek.strəs | US: ˌæm.biˈdek.strəs
adj. able to use both hands equally well
adj. highly skilled or versatile
adj. deceitful or double-dealing (archaic)
ambidextrous = ambi<both> + dextr<right> + ous<adjective suffix>
- ambi<both>: From Latin ambi-, meaning "both" or "around."
- dextr<right>: From Latin dexter, meaning "right-handed" or "skillful." Historically, the right hand was associated with skill and virtue.
- ous<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating possession or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word ambidextrous literally means "both right-handed," reflecting the idea of equal skill in both hands. In Latin, dexter (right) symbolized competence, while sinister (left) had negative connotations. Over time, the term expanded metaphorically to describe versatility or duplicity (as in "two-faced" behavior).
The ambidextrous artist painted effortlessly with either hand.
As an ambidextrous tennis player, he could switch hands mid-game.
Her ambidextrous writing ability amazed her classmates.
The ambidextrous mechanic used tools with equal precision in both hands.
In the past, "ambidextrous" was sometimes used to describe dishonest politicians.