How Do You Spell STICKY FINGERS?

Pronunciation: [stˈɪki fˈɪŋɡəz] (IPA)

Sticky fingers is a phrase commonly used to describe someone who has been caught stealing. The spelling of the word sticky is straightforward, pronounced /ˈstɪki/ with the stressed syllable sounding like "stih-kee." The word fingers, on the other hand, can be tricky. It is pronounced /ˈfɪŋɡərz/, with the "ng" sound followed by a soft "g" sound. So, the next time you use the phrase sticky fingers, remember to pay attention to the pronunciation of the word fingers.

STICKY FINGERS Meaning and Definition

1. Sticky fingers is a colloquial expression that refers to a tendency or propensity to pilfer or steal objects. This term stems from the literal meaning of "sticky" as something adhering or clinging, and "fingers" as the digits of the hand. When used figuratively, it alludes to someone who habitually takes things that do not belong to them, often without being noticed or caught.

   The phrase "sticky fingers" can imply a repeated pattern of theft, highlighting the skill or adeptness of the person in question at covertly acquiring items. It usually suggests stealing of small or inconspicuous things, rather than large or obvious ones. For instance, a person with sticky fingers might be discreetly pocketing loose change, pens, or trinkets, unbeknownst to others. It is important to note that sticky fingers does not refer to a specific condition or disorder, but rather serves as a metaphorical description of a habit or behavior.

   The use of the term "sticky fingers" is often employed in informal speech or writing, particularly in conversations about larceny or dishonesty. It may be used to describe an individual, commonly characterized as having a tendency for pilfering or being light-fingered, suggesting a lack of morality or respect for others' possessions. However, it is necessary to exercise caution when using this expression, as it can carry negative connotations and should be balanced with the understanding that individual circumstances or motivations may differ.

Common Misspellings for STICKY FINGERS

• aticky fingers
• zticky fingers
• xticky fingers
• dticky fingers
• eticky fingers
• wticky fingers
• sricky fingers
• sficky fingers
• sgicky fingers
• syicky fingers
• s6icky fingers
• s5icky fingers
• stucky fingers
• stjcky fingers
• stkcky fingers
• stocky fingers
• st9cky fingers
• st8cky fingers
• stixky fingers
• stivky fingers

Etymology of STICKY FINGERS

The phrase "sticky fingers" originated in the mid-19th century as a slang term used primarily in the United States. Its etymology combines two separate aspects:

1. Sticky: The word "sticky" comes from the Old English word "sticca", meaning a twig or something that adheres or clings. Over time, its meaning expanded to include anything that has an adhesive quality or creates a clinging sensation upon touch.

2. Fingers: The word "fingers" refers to the five digits on each hand responsible for grasping and manipulating objects.

The combination of these words, "sticky fingers", came to represent a colloquial phrase describing individuals who tend to have fingers covered in a sticky or adhesive substance. However, it later evolved figuratively to imply someone who is inclined to steal or take things dishonestly, perhaps due to the association of a thief leaving traces of their deeds on objects they touched.

Idioms with the word STICKY FINGERS

• sticky fingers The idiom "sticky fingers" refers to someone who is prone to stealing or frequently takes things that do not belong to them.
• have sticky fingers The idiom "have sticky fingers" refers to someone who is inclined to steal or takes things that do not belong to them.