What does pinkie mean?
A pinkie is the little finger, the smallest finger on the hand. In North American English it is an informal word, and the alternative spelling “pinky” is also widely used. The term often appears in affectionate or childlike contexts, such as descriptions of a child’s tiny hand or the familiar gesture of making a promise by linking little fingers. A “pinkie promise” is widely understood as a sincere personal pledge, though it has no formal or legal force. The word is less common in formal writing, where “little finger” is the neutral alternative, and British usage generally favors that phrase. Although it can simply refer to an anatomical finger, pinkie also names the associated promise gesture. Its diminutive sound makes it especially suitable for casual, warm, and playful language.
The little finger of the hand; an informal term also spelled “pinky.”
"He hooked his pinkie around hers to seal the promise."
Chiefly North American and informal; “little finger” is the more formal and internationally common alternative.
To touch, hook, or make a gesture with the little finger.
"The two children pinkied as they made their promise."
Uncommon and strongly informal; the promise gesture is much more frequent in everyday use than the verb.
The standard plural is “pinkies.” It is especially common when referring to several people’s little fingers or to a child’s small fingers.
"The dancers linked their pinkies as they crossed the stage."
A pinkie promise is one of the few childhood promises that can be sealed with the smallest finger and still feel entirely sincere.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pinkie come from?
Pinkie is an alternative spelling of the English word “pinky,” a formation connected with “pink” and traditionally explained by reference to the pinkish appearance of the small fingernail. Both names are associated with the little finger and appear in nineteenth-century English. Related forms include “pink” and the verb “pinking,” all sharing the same basic etymological background.
Related word forms
How pinkie is actually used
Informal and often affectionate or childlike. British English more commonly uses “little finger,” while North American English frequently uses “pinkie” or “pinky.” The expression “pinkie promise” is especially associated with childhood and conveys sincere reassurance rather than a legally binding agreement.
Easily confused with pinkie
“Pinkie” and “pinky” are informal spelling variants for the little finger, with “pinkie” being especially common in North American English.