ambidextrous
3 synonyms for ambidextrous, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Able to use both hands equally well, especially for writing.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
both-handed
either-handed
two-handed
How to use ambidextrous
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ambidextrous player
naturally ambidextrous
ambidextrous design
truly ambidextrous
It is a fairly formal word, common in sport, medical and design contexts.
Etymology
Ambidextrous comes from Medieval Latin ambidexter, formed from ambi-, meaning 'both', and dexter, meaning 'right'. It originally suggested that both hands acted like a right hand, in other words, were equally skilled.
Full origin of ambidextrous →Frequently asked questions
What does ambidextrous mean?
Ambidextrous describes someone who can use both hands equally well, particularly for writing.
Where does the word ambidextrous come from?
It comes from Medieval Latin ambidexter, combining ambi- ('both') and dexter ('right'), literally suggesting both hands act like a right hand.
Can ambidextrous also describe objects rather than people?
Yes, tools or instruments described as ambidextrous are equally usable by left-handed and right-handed people.
