thumb: Meaning and Definition of

thumb

1. the short, thick, inner digit of the human hand, next to the forefinger.
2. the corresponding digit in other animals; pollex.
3. the part of a glove or mitten for containing this digit.
4. an ovolo or echinus molding.
5. awkward; clumsy; bungling: The visitor almost knocked over a vase and seemed to be all thumbs.
6. a gesture or expression of dissent or disapproval: We turned thumbs down to that suggestion.
7. a gesture or expression of assent or approval.
8. under the power or influence of; subordinate to.

1. to soil or wear with the thumbs in handling, as the pages of a book.
2. to glance through (the pages of a book, leaflet, etc.) quickly.
3. to play (a guitar or other instrument) with or as with the thumbs.
4. (of a hitchhiker) to solicit or get (a ride) by pointing the thumb in the desired direction of travel.
1. to put one's thumb to one's nose and extend the fingers as a crudely defiant or contemptuous gesture.
2. to express defiance or contempt; dismiss or reject contemptuously.