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.

Origin of fingerprint

First recorded in 1855–60; finger + print

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
[ fĭnggər-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.