(n.) The short, thick first digit of the human hand, differing
from the other fingers in having but two phalanges; the pollex. See
Pollex.
(v. t.) To handle awkwardly.
(v. t.) To play with the thumbs, or with the thumbs and fingers;
as, to thumb over a tune.
(v. t.) To soil or wear with the thumb or the fingers; to soil,
or wear out, by frequent handling; also, to cover with the thumb; as,
to thumb the touch-hole of a cannon.
(v. i.) To play with the thumb or thumbs; to play clumsily; to
thrum.
