Search results for 'thumb':

thumb noun 1 in humans: the two-boned digit on the inner side of the hand, set lower than and at a different angle to the other four digits. 2 the part of a glove or mitten that covers this digit. 3 in other animals: the digit corresponding to the human thumb. verb (thumbed, thumbing) 1 (often thumb through something) tr & intr to turn over the pages of (a book or magazine, etc) to glance at the contents. 2 to smudge or wear something with the thumb. 3 (usually thumb a lift or ride) tr & intr to hitchhike • I thumbed to London last week. all thumbs awkward and clumsy. thumb one's nose to cock a snook (see under snook²). thumbs down a sign indicating failure, rejection or disapproval. thumbs up a sign indicating success, best wishes for success, satisfaction or approval. under someone's thumb completely controlled or dominated by them.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon thuma.