dexterity Meaning, Definition & Usage

Dex*ter"i*ty noun

Etymology

L. dexteritas, fr. dexter: cf. F. dextérité. See Dexter.

Definitions

1. Right-handedness.
2. Readiness and grace in physical activity; skill and ease in using the hands; expertness in manual acts; as, dexterity with the chisel.

   In youth quick bearing and dexterity. Shak.

3. Readiness in the use or control of the mental powers; quickness and skill in managing any complicated or difficult affair; adroitness.

   His wisdom . . . was turned . . . into a dexterity to deliver himself. Bacon.

   He had conducted his own defense with singular boldness and dexterity. Hallam.

   Syn. -- Adroitness; activity; nimbleness; expertness; skill; cleverness; art; ability; address; tact; facility; aptness; aptitude; faculty. See Skill.