Dextrous

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈdɛkstrəs/

Definitions

• Skillful or adroit in the use of the hands or body.
• Mentally skillful; quick and clever in action or thought.

Usage Examples

• She was dextrous with her hands, expertly crafting intricate jewelry.
• His dextrous handling of the negotiations impressed everyone in the room.
• The dextrous performer wowed the audience with her acrobatic skills.

Etymology

The word "dextrous" comes from the Latin word "dexter," meaning "right" or "skillful," referring to the use of the right hand, which was historically associated with dexterity and skill. The suffix "-ous" indicates possessing qualities of being skillful or adept.

Synonyms

• Skillful
• Adroit
• Proficient
• Expert
• Deft

Antonyms

• Clumsy
• Incompetent
• Unskilled
• Awkward

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈdɛkstrəs/
• British English: /ˈdɛkstrəs/
• Australian English: /ˈdɛkstrəs/

Historical Usage

The term "dextrous" has been in use since the 15th century, derived from the Latin word "dexter," meaning "right-handed" or "skillful." Historically, the right hand was considered more adept, which led to the association of dexterity with skill and competence. The word has been widely used to describe someone proficient in physical tasks, as well as mental tasks requiring quick thinking and agility.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, dexterity has been valued in various professions, from crafting and artistry to athletics and surgery. The term "dextrous" highlights both physical skill and mental agility. In some cultures, being dextrous in handling tools or machinery was crucial to success in daily tasks and labor. In modern times, being "dextrous" is often associated with multitasking and adaptability in complex or high-pressure environments.

More Information

Dextrous refers to being skilled with one's hands or in a mental capacity. It has applications in a variety of fields, including sports, surgery, arts and crafts, and business, where the ability to think quickly and act with precision is highly valued. Dextrous individuals are often able to perform complex tasks with ease, showing proficiency in physical movements or mental processing. Being dextrous can also mean being adaptable, agile, and adept in unexpected situations, further highlighting the importance of skill in both personal and professional contexts. The ability to be dextrous can be honed through practice and experience, allowing individuals to excel in their chosen fields.