finger
UK[ˈfɪŋɡə(r)]US[ˈfɪŋɡər]
n
One of the five long parts at the end of your hand, sometimes excluding the thumb.
n
A part of a glove that covers one of these.
v
To touch or feel something with your fingers.
v
To identify someone as being involved in a crime, often to the police.
Etymology
The word 'finger' has a deep Germanic lineage, tracing back to the Proto-Germanic fingraz. Its ultimate pre-Germanic origin is uncertain, though it may be connected to the Proto-Indo-European root penkwe-, meaning "five," reflecting the obvious numerical association. The word has remained remarkably stable in form and core meaning throughout its history in English, from Old English 'finger'. Its development showcases the preservation of a basic, concrete body-part term within the core Germanic vocabulary, resisting replacement or major morphological change.
Analysis
The word 'finger' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It cannot be meaningfully segmented into smaller morphemes within modern English spelling. Its functional role is as a complete lexical root.
Examples
She wore a beautiful ring on her index finger.
He carefully fingered the fabric, assessing its quality.
The witness refused to finger the suspect in the lineup.