fingerprint
[ fing-ger-print ]
/ ˈfɪŋ gərˌprɪnt /
noun
an impression of the markings of the inner surface of the last joint of the thumb or other finger.
such an impression made with ink for purposes of identification.
any unique or distinctive pattern that presents unambiguous evidence of a specific person, substance, disease, etc.
verb (used with object)
to take or record the fingerprints of.
Words nearby fingerprint
fingering,
fingerling,
fingermark,
fingernail,
fingerpick,
fingerprint,
fingerspell,
fingerspelling,
fingerstall,
fingertip,
fingertip search
Example sentences from the Web for fingerprint
British Dictionary definitions for fingerprint
fingerprint
/ (ˈfɪŋɡəˌprɪnt) /
noun
an impression of the pattern of ridges on the palmar surface of the end joint of each finger and thumb
any identifying characteristic
biochem
the pattern of fragments obtained when a protein is digested by a proteolytic enzyme, usually observed following two-dimensional separation by chromatography and electrophoresis
verb
(tr)
to take an inked impression of the fingerprints of (a person)
to take a sample of (a person's) DNA
Medical definitions for fingerprint
fingerprint
[ fĭng′gər-prĭnt′ ]
n.
An impression on a surface of the curves formed by the ridges on a fingertip, especially such an impression made in ink and used as a means of identification.
A distinctive or identifying mark or characteristic.
An analytical method capable of making fine distinctions between similar compounds.
v.
To take fingerprints of.
To identify by a distinctive mark or characteristic.
Cultural definitions for fingerprint
fingerprint
The impression or mark left by the underside of the tips of the fingers or thumbs. The impression is formed by a pattern of ridges on the skin surface. This pattern is unique for each individual and therefore can serve as a means of identification. (Compare DNA fingerprinting.)
notes for fingerprint
Fingerprinting is used extensively in criminal investigation, but it is also used as a means of identification by many organizations.