Dex*ter"i*ty (?), n. [L. dexteritas, fr. dexter: cf. F. dext'erit'e. See Dexter.]

1.

Right-handedness.

2.

Readiness and grace in physical activity; skill and ease in using the hands; expertness in manual acts; as, dexterity with the chisel.

In youth quick bearing and dexterity. Shak.

3.

Readiness in the use or control of the mental powers; quickness and skill in managing any complicated or difficult affair; adroitness.

His wisdom . . . was turned . . . into a dexterity to deliver himself. Bacon.

He had conducted his own defense with singular boldness and dexterity. Hallam.

Syn. -- Adroitness; activity; nimbleness; expertness; skill; cleverness; art; ability; address; tact; facility; aptness; aptitude; faculty. See Skill.

 

© Webster 1913.