empty-handed

adjective

emp·​ty-hand·​ed ˌem(p)-tē-ˈhan-dəd 

1

: having or bringing nothing

2

: having acquired or gained nothing

came back empty-handed

Examples of empty-handed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Like his comic book alter ego, then, Kraven the Hunter was always destined to come home empty-handed in the end. —Mark Hughes, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024

The Oilers deserved some points — maybe as many as four — but came up empty-handed. —Daniel Nugent-Bowman, The Athletic, 15 Dec. 2024

We've all been taught not to show up somewhere empty-handed, but knowing how to dazzle with a host gift or housewarming present can inspire some serious thinking. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 12 Dec. 2024

But despite praise for her performances, both films mostly flew under the radar and the beloved Irish actress came up empty-handed in Monday’s Globe nominations. —Patrick Ryan, USA TODAY, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

empty-handed

adjective

emp·​ty-hand·​ed

ˌem(p)-tē-ˈhan-dəd

1

: having nothing in the hands

2

: having acquired or gained nothing

came back empty-handed