fingerprint

UK: ˈfɪŋɡəprɪnt | US: ˈfɪŋɡərprɪnt

Definition

  1. n. a mark or pattern made by the ridges on the tip of a human finger, used for identification.

  2. n. (figuratively) a distinctive or identifying characteristic.

  3. vt. to record or analyze fingerprints for identification.

Structure
finger <digit of the hand>print <mark or impression>
Etymology

The word "fingerprint" is a straightforward compound of "finger" (Old English finger, from Proto-Germanic fingraz) and "print" (Middle English prenten, from Old French preinte, meaning "pressed mark"). The term emerged in the mid-19th century as forensic science developed methods to use these unique ridges for identification. The logic is literal: a "print" (impression) left by a "finger."

Examples

  1. The detective found a clear fingerprint on the glass.

  2. Each snowflake has a unique fingerprint-like pattern.

  3. The suspect refused to provide his fingerprints.

  4. Modern smartphones often use fingerprint recognition for security.

  5. The artist’s style is a fingerprint of her creative vision.