little finger: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to informal
Quick answer
What does “little finger” mean?
The smallest and outermost finger of the human hand.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The smallest and outermost finger of the human hand.
Can refer to something small, insignificant, or the weakest part; also used in idioms about promises or involvement.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'little finger' is standard. In American English, 'pinky' (or 'pinky finger') is a very common, more informal synonym.
Connotations
'Little finger' is neutral in both. 'Pinky' (AmE) is casual, sometimes childish. The idiom 'twist someone around your little finger' is common in both.
Frequency
'Little finger' is more frequent in UK English. 'Pinky' dominates casual American speech, while 'little finger' is used in more formal or descriptive contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “little finger” in a Sentence
She raised her little finger.He wrapped his little finger around it.I can twist him around my little finger.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “little finger” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- A little-finger promise is very serious to children.
- He made a little-finger gesture.
American English
- A pinky promise is a sacred oath among kids.
- She wore a little-finger ring.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in metaphorical idioms about influence (e.g., 'She has the CEO wrapped around her little finger').
Academic
Used in anatomical, physiological, or anthropological descriptions.
Everyday
Common for describing minor injuries, gestures, or in idioms.
Technical
Used in medical (orthopaedics, anatomy) and forensic contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “little finger”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “little finger”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “little finger”
- Using 'little finger' as a verb (e.g., 'He little-fingered the button' – incorrect). Confusing it with 'ring finger'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they refer to the same finger. 'Pinky' (or 'pinky finger') is the common informal term in American English, while 'little finger' is standard in British English and formal American English.
No, 'little finger' is not standardly used as a verb. The related action is often described with verbs like 'crook', 'raise', or 'hook' with the little finger.
It means to control or influence someone completely and easily, often through charm or manipulation.
No significant difference in meaning. 'Little finger' is the far more common and idiomatic phrase. 'Small finger' is understandable but less natural.
The smallest and outermost finger of the human hand.
Little finger is usually neutral to informal in register.
Little finger: in British English it is pronounced /ˌlɪtl ˈfɪŋɡə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌlɪtl ˈfɪŋɡər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “twist/wrap someone around your little finger”
- “not lift a little finger”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'LITTLE' = SMALL. It's the LITTLEST finger you have.
Conceptual Metaphor
WEAKNESS IS SMALLNESS (the little finger), CONTROL IS PHYSICAL MANIPULATION (twist around your little finger).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common informal American English term for 'little finger'?