How Do You Spell DEXTROUS?

Pronunciation: [dˈɛkstɹəs] (IPA)

The word "dextrous" has long been a source of confusion for many English speakers, thanks to its somewhat irregular spelling. Pronounced /ˈdɛkstrəs/, the word describes someone who is skilled or adept with their hands, particularly their right hand. The spelling of the word is unusual because it contains the letter "x," which is typically reserved for words of foreign origin. However, the "x" in "dextrous" is derived from the Latin "dexter," meaning "right," and serves to differentiate it from the more common spelling "dextrous."

DEXTROUS Meaning and Definition

1. Dextrous, also spelled "dexterous," is an adjective that describes a person or an animal possessing skill and agility in the use of their hands or body. The term originates from the Latin word "dextra" which means "right hand" or "skillful."

   A dextrous individual demonstrates excellent manual coordination, often able to carry out complex tasks quickly and effectively. It involves the skillful manipulation of objects, fine motor control, and precise hand-eye coordination. Dextrous individuals are typically adept at activities such as playing musical instruments, typing, painting, sewing, or performing delicate surgical procedures.

   The term can also be used more broadly to describe a person's mental agility or cleverness. Dextrous individuals possess quick thinking and nimble problem-solving abilities. They can find innovative solutions to challenges or adapt easily to new situations, showcasing their intellectual dexterity.

   In the animal kingdom, certain species are renowned for their dextrous capabilities, like primates, particularly chimpanzees and gorillas, known for their ability to use tools and manipulate objects with a high level of precision.

   Overall, dextrous refers to a remarkable aptitude in the physical or mental domain, highlighting an individual's skill, coordination, and adeptness in their actions.

Common Misspellings for DEXTROUS

• dexterous
• sextrous
• xextrous
• cextrous
• fextrous
• rextrous
• eextrous
• dwxtrous
• dsxtrous
• ddxtrous
• drxtrous
• d4xtrous
• d3xtrous
• deztrous
• dectrous
• dedtrous
• destrous
• dexrrous
• dexfrous
• dexgrous

Etymology of DEXTROUS

The word "dextrous" is derived from Latin, specifically from the Latin word "dexter" which means "right" or "on the right side". The term "dexter" itself has Indo-European roots and is related to words like "destiny" and "dexterity". The suffix "-ous" is added to form an adjective, indicating the quality or characteristic of being right-handed or skillful. So, "dextrous" essentially means "skilled" or "adept", especially with the right hand.

Similar spelling words for DEXTROUS

• dextrorse,
• dextrorsal,
• destroy,
• dexterous,
• dextrously,
• dexterously,
• dexter,
• dextrose,
• dextral.