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.
"She twirled the pencil through her fingers with impressive dexterity."
"The surgeon's dexterity made the delicate procedure look effortless."
"Playing the violin well takes years of practice to build the necessary dexterity."
"Playing computer games can improve your manual dexterity."
How to use dexterity
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPhysical skill and quickness, especially with the hands, though it can also describe mental agility.
Common pairings
manual dexterity
great dexterity
physical dexterity
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Word forms
- Plural
- dexterities
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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.
Synonyms
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sleight
manual dexterity
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for dexterity
See all rhymes for dexterity →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.
