Crossword Genius

Finger with its own rule? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thumb

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'finger' is the definition.
(I know that finger can be written as thumb)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for thumb that I've seen before include "Digit used in getting free rides from motorists" , "Short thick manual digit" , "Digit (used for making a hitch?)" , "could do it for a lift" , "Opposable digit" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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