Type any word!

Fingerprints Meaning in English

word · lemma: fingerprint

/ˈfɪŋɡɝˌpɹɪnts/
FING-gur-prints
/fˈɪŋɡəpɹˌɪnts/
FING-guh-prints

Definition

The marks or patterns left by a person's fingers on a surface. They are often used to identify someone because each person's fingerprints are unique.

Usage & Nuances

Usually plural in everyday use: people normally say 'fingerprints' rather than 'fingerprint' when talking about the marks on fingers or evidence on a surface. Common collocations include 'leave fingerprints', 'take fingerprints', and 'fingerprint scanner'. Do not confuse it with 'thumbprint', which is only from the thumb.

Example Sentences

The police found fingerprints on the door.

basic

My phone uses fingerprints to unlock the screen.

basic

Do not touch the glass, or you will leave fingerprints.

basic

They took my fingerprints when I applied for the visa.

natural

Wipe the table so we do not see all these fingerprints.

natural

The detective said the killer did not leave any fingerprints behind.

natural