# fingerprinting

/ˈfɪŋɡɝˌpɹɪntɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈɪŋɡəpɹˌɪntɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fingerprinting
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

the process of recording the patterns on your fingers to show who you are. Police do it after an arrest, and phones use it to unlock safely.

For teachers: recording and comparing the unique ridge patterns on fingertips to establish personal identity. Extended in computing to identifying devices, browsers, or files from distinctive technical characteristics.

## Examples

- Police use fingerprinting to identify suspects quickly.
- The new office uses fingerprinting instead of key cards so only staff can enter the building.
- While fingerprinting helps websites detect fraud, privacy advocates warn that it allows tracking even when users clear cookies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.