green fingers

green fingers

English

Etymology

Popularized by British gardener and radio/TV broadcaster Cecil Henry Middleton. This etymology is incomplete. You can help Wiktionary by elaborating on the origins of this term.

Pronunciation

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Noun

green fingers pl (plural only)

1. (idiomatic, informal) A seemingly natural gardening ability.
   • 2008 August 29, David Adam, “Environment: Johnson unveils secret weapon in war on climate change - the roof garden”, in The Guardian‎:

     To some they are a rural escape in the centre of the city, to others they are a chance to test their green fingers and design skills. Now London mayor Boris Johnson has found a new use for urban roof gardens—as a key weapon on the front line against global warming.

Synonyms

• green thumb (US)

Derived terms

• green-fingered
• have green fingers

Related terms

• butterfingers

Translations

natural gardening ability — see green thumb