Digitus Impudicus

The Trail of the Impudent Finger

Inside of the Roman Coliseum

There are numerous accounts suggesting that the middle finger gesture originated in ancient Rome. Soldiers and gladiators reportedly used it to insult adversaries and spectators alike.

Impudent finger design in olive, by Fox & Thistle Studio.

More than a thousand years later, in medieval France, the gesture evolved as a mark of contempt and mockery. French soldiers would sever the index and middle fingers of captured English longbowmen to prevent them from drawing their bows.

Archery Practice—Welsh Archers (Psalm 79), from the Luttrell Psalter, England, c. 1325

In response, defiant English archers would raise their remaining fingers, proudly signaling their ability to still fight back. This rebellious act eventually took root as the iconic symbol we recognize today as the middle finger.

Impudent finger design in salmon.

Now, from schoolyard scuffles to roadside brawls, the gesture stands as a symbol of defiance, rebellion, and offense.

Impudent finger scrunchie in black.

Subtle yet bold, our scrunchies hide that irreverent spirit right in your hair. Whether you're attending an event you'd rather skip or spending time with someone you'd rather not see, it's the perfect quiet protest—no words needed.

This was originally featured in the July 2025, Sturgeon Moon Cycle of the Liminal

See our full collection of Hair Scrunchies.