\Dex*ter"i*ty\, n. [L. dexteritas, fr. dexter: cf. F.
dext['e]rit['e]. See {Dexter}.]
1. Right-handedness.
2. Readiness and grace in physical activity; skill and ease
   in using the hands; expertness in manual acts; as,
   dexterity with the chisel.
         In youth quick bearing and dexterity. --Shak.
3. Readiness in the use or control of the mental powers;
   quickness and skill in managing any complicated or
   difficult affair; adroitness.
         His wisdom . . . was turned . . . into a dexterity
         to deliver himself.                   --Bacon.
         He had conducted his own defense with singular
         boldness and dexterity.               --Hallam.
Syn: Adroitness; activity; nimbleness; expertness; skill;
     cleverness; art; ability; address; tact; facility;
     aptness; aptitude; faculty. See {Skill}.