adjective

ambidextrous

am-bi-DEK-struhs

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Ambidextrous (adjective) means Able to use both hands equally well, especially for writing. Example: “She is ambidextrous and can write with either hand.”

adjective

Able to use both hands equally well, especially for writing.

"She is ambidextrous and can write with either hand."

"Ambidextrous cricketers can bowl and bat well with both arms."

"Few people are truly ambidextrous from birth."

Designed to be used comfortably by both left-handed and right-handed people.

"The scissors have an ambidextrous handle that suits both hands."

"Ambidextrous computer mice work equally well for left- and right-handed users."

How to use ambidextrous

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAble to use both hands equally well, or made to suit either hand.

When to use it

It is a fairly formal word, common in sport, medical and design contexts.

Memory tip

Remember that ambi- means 'both', so the word always involves two hands or two sides, not just general skill.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

ambidextrous player naturally ambidextrous ambidextrous design truly ambidextrous

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “ambidextrous” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She is _____ and can write with either hand.

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.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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both-handed either-handed two-handed

Rhymes for ambidextrous

yous nous heinous ominous curious anxious copious tenuous unctuous tortuous spurious infamous

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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.

What is the meaning of ambidextrous?

"ambidextrous" (adjective) means able to use both hands equally well, especially for writing.