Fingerpost

/ˈfɪŋɡərˌpoʊst/ noun

Definition

A signpost with multiple arms or pointers extending like fingers, used historically to direct travelers along roads.

Etymology

Compound of 'finger' and 'post' (Old English 'post,' from Latin 'postis'). These directional markers appeared in England from the 16th century onward.

Kelly Says

Fingerposts became iconic elements of British countryside because they solved a medieval problem—most people couldn't read, so pointing arms worked better than written signs for giving directions.

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