fingerpick: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Musical
Quick answer
What does “fingerpick” mean?
To play a stringed instrument (like a guitar or banjo) by plucking the strings directly with the fingertips or fingernails, rather than using a plectrum (pick).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To play a stringed instrument (like a guitar or banjo) by plucking the strings directly with the fingertips or fingernails, rather than using a plectrum (pick).
The term can also refer to the small plectrum worn on the fingertip, though this is more commonly called a 'fingerpick' (noun). As a verb, it implies a precise, often intricate picking technique used in folk, bluegrass, and certain blues and classical styles.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is equally understood in musical contexts in both varieties. The technique is strongly associated with American folk and bluegrass traditions.
Connotations
Connotes acoustic, folk, bluegrass, or intricate guitar styles. In both varieties, it suggests a higher level of technical skill than basic strumming.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English due to the stronger cultural association with bluegrass and country music, but the term is standard in global musical lexicon.
Grammar
How to Use “fingerpick” in a Sentence
SUBJ + fingerpick + OBJ (instrument/song)SUBJ + fingerpick + OBJ + ADV/ADJ (manner)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “fingerpick” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She learned to fingerpick traditional folk tunes on her acoustic.
- For that song, you'll need to fingerpick the arpeggios rather than strum.
- He fingerpicks with remarkable clarity and speed.
American English
- Most bluegrass banjo players fingerpick using metal picks on their fingers.
- I'm working on a new fingerpicking pattern for my guitar solo.
- Can you fingerpick that blues progression?
adverb
British English
- [Not used as an adverb]
American English
- [Not used as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- [No standard adjectival use; the noun is used attributively: 'fingerpick technique', 'fingerpick style']
American English
- [No standard adjectival use; the noun is used attributively: 'fingerpick guitarist', 'fingerpick part']
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in musicology, ethnomusicology, and performance studies when discussing technique.
Everyday
Used by musicians and music enthusiasts. Uncommon in general conversation.
Technical
Core term in guitar pedagogy, music instruction, and instrument reviews.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “fingerpick”
- Using 'fingerpick' to mean 'choose with your finger' (that is 'finger' or 'pick out'). Confusing the verb (action) with the noun (the tool).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialised term used primarily by musicians and music enthusiasts. It is not common in everyday general conversation.
They are often used interchangeably as verbs. However, 'fingerstyle' is a broader term for the technique/genre, while 'fingerpick' is more specific to the action of plucking. 'Fingerstyle' can also involve tapping and slapping, not just picking.
Yes, absolutely. While most associated with acoustic guitars, the fingerpicking technique is also used on electric guitars in genres like blues, jazz, and folk-rock.
No, it is also a noun referring to the small plectrum (usually metal or plastic) that fits over a fingertip to aid in plucking. Example: 'He put on his thumbpick and two fingerpicks.'
To play a stringed instrument (like a guitar or banjo) by plucking the strings directly with the fingertips or fingernails, rather than using a plectrum (pick).
Fingerpick is usually technical / musical in register.
Fingerpick: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfɪŋɡəpɪk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfɪŋɡərpɪk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms specific to this verb]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of your FINGER as a PICK. You FINGER-PICK the strings.
Conceptual Metaphor
FINGERS ARE TOOLS (specifically, precision plucking tools).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'to fingerpick'?