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noun

dexterity

dehks-TEH-rih-tee

Dexterity (noun) means Skill and quickness, especially in using the hands. Example: “The surgeon's dexterity made the delicate procedure look effortless.”

noun
1
Skill and quickness, especially in using the hands.
"The surgeon's dexterity made the delicate procedure look effortless."
"Playing the violin well takes years of practice to build the necessary dexterity."

How to use dexterity

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPhysical skill and quickness, especially with the hands, though it can also describe mental agility.

Common pairings
manual dexterity great dexterity physical dexterity

Word forms

dexterities plural

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The surgeon's _____ made the delicate procedure look effortless.

Etymology

From Latin dexteritas, related to dexter, "on the right side" — reflecting the old assumption that right-handedness meant greater skill.

Origin: Latin

sleight manual dexterity

Related words

Rhymes for dexterity

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Frequently asked questions

What does “dexterity” mean?

The word “dexterity” means skill and quickness, especially in using the hands. In plain terms, physical skill and quickness, especially with the hands, though it can also describe mental agility.

How do you pronounce “dexterity”?

“Dexterity” is pronounced dehks-TEH-rih-tee (/dɛksˈtɛɹɪti/ in IPA).

How do you use “dexterity” in a sentence?

Here is “dexterity” used in a sentence: “The surgeon's dexterity made the delicate procedure look effortless.”

What part of speech is “dexterity”?

“Dexterity” is a noun.

Where does the word “dexterity” come from?

The word “dexterity” comes from Latin. From Latin dexteritas, related to dexter, "on the right side" — reflecting the old assumption that right-handedness meant greater skill.

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