Etymology Borrowed from Latin digitālis, from digitus (“finger, toe”) + -alis (“-al”), equivalent to digit + -al. Doublet of digitalis.
1
Having to do with digits (fingers or toes); especially, performed with a finger.
digital palpation
digital examination
2
Property of representing values as discrete, often binary, numbers rather than a continuous spectrum.
digital computer
digital clock
2 more examples
Not long ago, it was difficult to produce photographs of tiny creatures with every part in focus.[…]A photo processing technique called focus stacking has changed that. Developed as a tool to electronically combine the sharpest bits of multiple digital images, focus stacking is a boon to biologists seeking full focus on a micron scale.2013 July-August, Catherine Clabby, “Focus on Everything”, in American Scientist:
This meter is a 3½ digit digital multimeter that is rugged, reliable and convenient to use, while providing all of the accuracy and features needed for any application.2017 October 23, “DIGITAL MULTIMETER M-1000E”, in Elenco, page 4:
3
Of or relating to computers or the Information Age.
He moved to digital for the first time, using a Sony camera.
3
Abbreviation, Ellipsis Ellipsis of digital watch.
Initially, traditional watchmakers could not see much future in digitals.2000, Amy Glasmeier, Manufacturing Time, page 209:
4
Abbreviation, Ellipsis, Informal Ellipsis of digital art.
5
Entertainment, Lifestyle, Music Any of the keys of a piano or similar instrument.
Beginning with the keyboard, direct attention to the grouping of the black digitals, and show that though at the outer edge of the keyboard the white digitals look as if they were all equally close neighbours, yet, […]c.1920?, Annie Jessy Gregg Curwen, The Teacher's Guide to Mrs. Curwen's Pianoforte Method (The Child Pianist)
[…] turning round as he reached the door, he placed his digitals in close proximity to his proboscis, saying—“I guess there an't anything green about this child!' and left the Professor in utter astonishment […]1853, Yankee Notions, volume 2, page 137:
[…] with grave complacency wiggles his digitals, and turns away with a scornful smile playing upon his countenance.1855, North Carolina University Magazine, volume 3, page 23: