fist
9 synonyms and 0 antonyms for fist, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A hand with the fingers curled tightly inward, typically for punching or gripping.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use fist
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English fyst, going back to a prehistoric Germanic root possibly meaning "to punch or prick."
Full origin of fist →Frequently asked questions
What does “fist” mean?
The word “fist” means a hand with the fingers curled tightly inward, typically for punching or gripping. In plain terms, a hand closed into a tight ball, usually for hitting or gripping something firmly.
How do you pronounce “fist”?
“Fist” is pronounced fihst (/fɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “fist” in a sentence?
Here is “fist” used in a sentence: “He clenched his fist in anger.”
What is another word for “fist”?
Words with a similar meaning to “fist” include nief, bunch of fives, fist-size and ductus.
What part of speech is “fist”?
Depending on how it is used, “fist” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “fist” come from?
The word “fist” comes from Old English. From Old English fyst, going back to a prehistoric Germanic root possibly meaning "to punch or prick.".
Is “fist” a common word?
“Fist” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “fist” have?
“Fist” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a hand with the fingers curled tightly inward, typically for punching or gripping.
What is the difference between a "fist" and a "palm"?
A "fist" is a hand with the fingers curled tightly inward, ready to punch or grip, while the "palm" is the flat inner surface of an open hand. You clench your hand into a fist but hold something in your open palm.
What is the difference between a "fist bump" and a "punch"?
A "fist bump" is a friendly greeting where two people gently touch their closed fists together, while a "punch" is a forceful blow struck with a fist. They use the same hand shape but have opposite intentions.
What words commonly go with "fist"?
"Fist" appears in many phrases, including "clench your fist," "shake your fist," "make a fist," "fist bump," "iron fist," and "hand over fist." It usually describes a tightly closed hand.