The little finger, or pinky finger, also known as the fifth digit, or pinkie, is the most ulnar and smallest finger of the human hand, opposite the thumb, and next to the ring finger.
Etymology
The word "pinky" is derived from the Dutch word, meaning "little finger". The earliest recorded use of the term "pinkie" is from Scotland in 1808. The term is common in Scottish English and American English, and is sometimes used in wider British English, outside of Scotland.
Muscles
There are nine muscles that control the fifth digit: Three in the hypothenar eminence, two extrinsic flexors, two extrinsic extensors, and two more intrinsic muscles:
Among American children, a "pinky swear" or "pinky promise" is made when a person wraps one of their pinky fingers around another person's pinky and makes a promise. Among members of the Japanese yakuza, the penalty for various offenses is removal of parts of the little finger. It is a common misconception that some people extend their little finger when drinking from a teacup. This practice is generally deprecated by etiquette guides as a sign of snobbery amongst the socially inferior, with various cultural theories as to the origin of the practice including the idea that finger food should be eaten with only the first three fingers.
Rings
The signet ring is traditionally worn on the little finger of a gentleman's left hand, a practice still common especially in the United Kingdom, Australia, and European cultures. A signet ring is considered part of the regalia of many European monarchies, and also of the Pope, with the ring always worn on the left little finger. In modern times the location of the signet ring has relaxed, with examples worn on various different fingers, although little fingers still tend to be the most usual. The Iron Ring is a symbolic ring worn by most Canadian engineers. The Ring is a symbol of both pride and humility for the engineering profession, and is always worn on the pinky of the dominant hand. In the United States, the Engineer's Ring is a stainless steel ring worn on the fifth finger of the working hand by engineers who belong to the Order of the Engineer and have accepted the Obligation of an Engineer.
