Definition & Meaning of "Give the finger"

give sb the finger

/ɡˈɪv ɔː flˈɪp ˌɛsbˈiː ðə fˈɪŋɡə/

/ɡˈɪv ɔːɹ flˈɪp ˌɛsbˈiː ðə fˈɪŋɡɚ/

to give sb the finger

PHRASE

to raise one's middle finger and point it toward a person to show one is angry with them, hates, or disrespects them

to [give|flip] {sb} the finger definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "giving someone the finger" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "giving someone the finger" is not precisely documented, but it has a long history as a gesture of contempt and disrespect. is used to express contempt, anger, or disrespect toward another person. It involves extending the middle finger of one's hand while keeping the other fingers folded into the palm. This gesture is recognized as impolite and offensive and is generally not suitable for most social or professional settings.