- dex|ter|ous
- dex|ter|ous «DEHKS tuhr uhs, -truhs», adjective.1. having skill with the hands: »
A typist needs to be dexterous.
2. quick and skillful in bodily movements: »a dexterous acrobat.
3. having or showing skill in using the mind; clever: »A successful manager must be dexterous in handling people.
4. right-handed. Also, dextrous.–dex´ter|ous|ly, adverb.–dex´ter|ous|ness, noun.Synonym Study 1, 2, 3 Dexterous, deft, adroit mean skillful in using the hands and body, or the mind. Dexterous suggests easy, quick, smooth movements and lightness and sureness of touch coming from practice: »Mary is a dexterous pianist.
Deft adds to dexterous the idea of neatness and exceptional lightness and swiftness: »A surgeon has to be deft.
Adroit adds to dexterous the idea of being quick-witted, and is used less often of physical skill than of mental quickness, resourcefulness, and cleverness in handling situations: »The adroit stewardess kept the passengers on the plane cheerful during the storm.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.