Dexterous comes from the Latin word dexter, meaning "on the right side." Since most people are right-handed, and therefore do things more easily with their right hand, dexter developed the additional …

DEXTEROUS definition: skillful or adroit in the use of the hands or body. See examples of dexterous used in a sentence.

/ ˈdek.st ə r.əs / Add to word list having the ability to perform a difficult action quickly and skilfully with the hands: a dexterous movement

Someone who is dexterous is very skilful and clever with their hands. As people grow older they generally become less dexterous. ...a dextrous blues pianist.

The adjective dexterous often refers to skill and agility with the hands, but it can mean any skillful or clever physical movement. A kid's dexterous ball handling and footwork can aid him on the soccer field.

1. Skillful in the use of the hands. 2. Having mental skill or adroitness. 3. Done with dexterity: a dexterous maneuver.

Definition of dexterous adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

dexterous, adj. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

Dexterous is still most often used to refer to manual or physical ability but can also refer to mental or social agility: a dexterous wood carver; dexterous management of a potentially embarrassing situation.

Feb 5, 2026 · Adjective dexterous (comparative more dexterous, superlative most dexterous) Skillful with one's hands.