What term is derived from humans using their fingers to count?

The term that refers to humans using their fingers to count is "digit." The word "digit" comes from the Latin "digitus," which means "finger." Historically, people have used their fingers for counting, and that practice has a direct connection to the definition of a digit in mathematics, where it represents a single numerical symbol or numeral, typically ranging from 0 to 9 in the decimal system.

In a broader context, the concept of digits is foundational in mathematics, leading to the formation of more complex numbers and numerical systems. By using a small number of distinct symbols (or digits), we can represent larger values through combinations. This relationship between physical counting with fingers and the abstract representation of numbers through digits underscores the significance of the term in both linguistic and mathematical contexts.