fingerpick
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfɪŋɡərˌpɪk/
KK: /ˈfɪŋɡərˌpɪk/
intransitive verb
Definition
To play a stringed instrument by using your fingers to pluck the strings instead of using a pick.
Example
He likes to fingerpick his guitar during performances.
Tense Forms
Past: fingerpicked
Past Participle: fingerpicked
Conversation
I just learned how to fingerpick on my guitar.
That's awesome! How's it going so far?
It's tricky, but I love the sound it creates when I fingerpick the strings.
I bet! It adds such a nice texture to the music.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pluck
strum
pick
Antonyms
strum
thump
bang
transitive verb
Definition
To play a stringed instrument by using your fingers to pluck the strings one at a time instead of using a pick.
Example
He likes to fingerpick his guitar during performances.
Tense Forms
Past: fingerpicked
Past Participle: fingerpicked
Conversation
Have you ever tried to fingerpick a guitar?
No, I haven't, but it sounds interesting!
It's really cool once you get the hang of it.
Root Explanation
Fingerpick → It is formed from "finger" (from Old English "fingra", meaning the digit of the hand) and "pick" (from Old English "piccan", meaning to pluck or to pick). The word "fingerpick" refers to the technique of plucking strings with the fingers rather than using a plectrum.
Memory Tip
Think of using your 'fingers' to 'pluck' or 'pick' the strings of a musical instrument — that's what fingerpick means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.