Spanish word

dedo

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈdeðo/

Meaning

  • masculine nounfinger

Example

Me corté el dedo con el cuchillo.

I cut my finger with the knife.

Illustration for dedo (finger)

More examples

Pulsa el botón con el dedo índice.

Press the button with the index finger.

Core concept

Short articulated organ at the tip of a hand or foot that facilitates touching, holding, and balance.

Common phrases

  • dedo índice

    index finger

Similar words

pulgar: Sturdy thumb that provides forceful grip and control when grasping.
índice: Index finger for pointing and delicate, precise work.
medio: Long finger in the middle of the hand.
meñique: Smallest finger on the hand, located at the outermost side.

Definition in Spanish

Se usa para cada uno de los dedos de la mano o de los pies; órgano corto y articulado que facilita la manipulación y el equilibrio.

Word origin

The word derives from Latin digitus 'finger' through regular medieval Romance phonetic changes into Spanish dedo.

Usage tips

  • The cognate dígito appears in Spanish for technical or numerical contexts, while everyday speech uses dedo for body parts.

Other meanings

  • toenoun

Word lists with this word