finger

	This is the JargonFile ^(V4.00) entry for finger - Next: finger trouble, Prev: fine
:finger: [WAITS, via BSD Unix] 1. /n./ A program that displays information about a particular user or all users logged on the system, or a remote system. Typically shows full name, last login time, idle time, terminal line, and terminal location (where applicable). May also display a plan file left by the user (see also Hacking X for Y). 2. /vt./ To apply finger to a username. 3. /vt./ By extension, to check a humans current stateby any means. "Foodp?" "T!" "OK, finger Lisa and see if shes idle." 4. Any picture (composed of ASCII characters) depicting the finger. Originally a humorous component of ones plan file to deter the curious fingerer (sense 2), it has entered the arsenal of some flamers.
* (text is auto-included via JargonExtension by mutante using jargon with VERSION 4.0.0, 24 JUL 1996 - JargonFile by Eric S. Raymond is in the public domain)