fingerprint
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfɪŋɡəˌprɪnt/
KK: /ˈfɪŋɡərˌprɪnt/
noun
Definition
A mark made by the patterns of ridges on the tip of a finger, used for identification.
Example
The detective found a fingerprint on the glass that helped solve the case.
Conversation
Did you see that documentary about how they use fingerprints for solving crimes?
Yeah, it was fascinating! I didn't realize how unique each fingerprint is.
It's crazy to think that no two fingerprints are the same.
Exactly! It's like our own personal code.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
imprint
mark
pattern
Antonyms
blank
void
absence
transitive verb
Definition
To identify someone or something by using a unique mark or feature, often related to the patterns on a person's fingers.
Example
The police fingerprinted the suspect to confirm his identity.
Tense Forms
Past: fingerprinted
Past Participle: fingerprinted
Conversation
Did you hear they fingerprint everyone at the event yesterday?
Yeah, I saw that! It seemed a bit much for a party.
I guess they wanted to keep things secure and know who was there.
Root Explanation
Fingerprint → It is formed from "finger" (from Old English "finger", meaning the digit of the hand) and "print" (from Old French "printe", meaning to press or imprint). The word "fingerprint" refers to the unique impression made by the ridges on a finger, thus combining the concepts of a finger and an imprint.
Memory Tip
Think of the unique 'imprint' ('print') made by the 'digit of the hand' ('finger') — that's why a fingerprint is a distinct mark made by a finger.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.