digit

UK: ˈdɪdʒɪt | US: ˈdɪdʒɪt

Definition

  1. n. any of the numerals from 0 to 9

  2. n. a finger or toe

  3. n. a unit of length based on the width of a finger (historical)

Structure
dig <finger/toe (Latin *digitus*)>it <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "digit" originates from Latin digitus, meaning "finger" or "toe." This connection reflects early counting systems where fingers were used as numerical tools. Over time, "digit" expanded to represent numerals (0-9) due to the practice of counting on fingers. The modern computational sense (e.g., digital technology) further extends this logic, as data is processed in discrete numerical units.

Examples

  1. The number 7 is a single-digit numeral.

  2. Humans typically have five digits on each hand.

  3. Ancient measurements sometimes used the digit as a unit.

  4. Digital clocks display time using digits.

  5. She injured a digit while playing basketball.