What is the term used for a fingerprint as per forensic terminology?

The term "dactylogram" refers specifically to a fingerprint within forensic terminology. This word is derived from the Greek terms "daktylos," meaning "finger," and "gram," meaning "written" or "recorded." In forensic science, dactylograms are crucial for identification purposes, as they capture the unique patterns of ridges and valleys on an individual's fingers.

The use of the term highlights the specialized language used within the field of forensic science, as it encompasses not just the physical print, but also the systematic analysis and classification of fingerprints for identification. This makes "dactylogram" the most precise term in the context of forensic investigations, distinguishing it from more general terms like "imprint," "print," and "fingerprint," which may have broader or more informal usage and do not convey the specific scientific meaning associated with forensic identification processes.