What is dexterity Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dɛkˈsitrəsi/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

Ability to perform tasks that require manual skill, coordination, and precision, involving the use of small muscles in the hands and fingers.

Examples

• The surgeon required a high level of dexterity to operate the microscope.
• The pianist’s exceptional dexterity allowed her to play complex melodies with ease.

Synonyms

• Manual dexterity
• Coordination

Antonyms

• Clumsiness
• Motor skills disorder

Additional Information

Developing dexterity requires practice and repetition, especially during childhood and adolescence, to strengthen hand muscles and improve coordination. Activities such as playing musical instruments, drawing, or sewing can help enhance dexterity.

People with jobs that require manual dexterity, such as surgeons, chefs, or craftsmen, may need to undergo extensive training to develop their skills. In addition, certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or stroke, can affect dexterity and require rehabilitation therapy.

Dexterity can also be influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and neuromuscular development. As people age, their dexterity may decline due to reduced muscle mass and joint flexibility.

In educational settings, dexterity is often assessed through fine motor skills tests, such as puzzles or playdough manipulation. These tests help identify areas where children may need additional support or practice to develop their fine motor skills.

Etymology

From Latin “dexter,” meaning “right-hand,” and “seity,” or “the quality of having or being skilled in any art or occupation.”

Usage Notes

Dexterity is typically used to describe a person’s ability to perform tasks that require manual skill and coordination.

For example:

• “The artist demonstrated exceptional dexterity in painting the delicate flower petals.”
• “The surgeon’s high level of dexterity allowed him to complete the intricate operation with precision.”

Cultural References

The term “dexterity” has been mentioned in various cultural references:

• “The Greatest Dexterity Show on Earth” – a title used by a circus to showcase their performers’ abilities.
• Disney’s “The Incredibles” features a character with superhuman dexterity named Elastigirl.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some idiomatic expressions or phrases involving the term “dexterity” include:

• “Having a steady hand.”
• ” Being skillful with one’s hands.”

Related Words or Phrases

• Motor skills
• Coordination
• Manual dexterity
• Fine motor skills

Collocations

Some common word combinations with “dexterity” include:

• “High dexterity”
• “Manual dexterity skills”
• “Dexterity training”

Frequency of Use

The term “dexterity” is relatively common in medical, educational, and occupational contexts, but less frequently used in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of “dexterity” include:

• “Dexterity”
• “Dexteritys”
• “Dexteritis”