noun
- an impression of the markings of the inner surface of the last joint of the thumb or other finger.
- such an impression made with ink for purposes of identification.
- any unique or distinctive pattern that presents unambiguous evidence of a specific person, substance, disease, etc.
verb (used with object)
- to take or record the fingerprints of.
noun
- an impression of the pattern of ridges on the palmar surface of the end joint of each finger and thumb
- any identifying characteristic
- biochem the pattern of fragments obtained when a protein is digested by a proteolytic enzyme, usually observed following two-dimensional separation by chromatography and electrophoresis
verb
- (tr) to take an inked impression of the fingerprints of (a person)
- to take a sample of (a person’s) DNA
1834, from finger (n.) + print (n.). Proposed as a means of identification from c.1892. Admissibility as evidence as valid proof of guilt in murder trials in U.S. upheld in 1912. From 1905 as a verb. Related: Fingerprinted; fingerprinting.
n.
- An impression on a surface of the curves formed by the ridges on a fingertip, especially such an impression made in ink and used as a means of identification.
- A distinctive or identifying mark or characteristic.
- An analytical method capable of making fine distinctions between similar compounds.
v.
- To take fingerprints of.
- To identify by a distinctive mark or characteristic.
The impression or mark left by the underside of the tips of the fingers or thumbs. The impression is formed by a pattern of ridges on the skin surface. This pattern is unique for each individual and therefore can serve as a means of identification. (Compare DNA fingerprinting.)