handheld

adjective

hand·​held ˈhan(d)-ˌheld 

-ˈheld

: held in the hand

especially : designed to be operated while being held in the hand

handheld computers

handheld

ˈhan(d)-ˌheld 

noun

Examples of handheld in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The improved ride will include new ride vehicles with video monitors and real-time scoring updates, a new friendly robot teammate named Buddy, handheld blasters, and other gameplay enhancements. —Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 1 Apr. 2025

Tummy scratches and head rubs are always appreciated, but go the extra mile with this handheld electric pet massager from Walmart. —Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 1 Apr. 2025

The upcoming device could help Microsoft fend off the threat of Valve’s popular Steam Deck handheld, which runs SteamOS, a custom version of Linux. —Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 31 Mar. 2025

Several experts suggested the officials likely used Signal for ease of use, noting the classified handheld devices are less user-friendly. —Miranda Nazzaro, The Hill, 25 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for handheld

• barrelled
• beheld
• chiselled
• compelled
• dispelled
• excelled
• expelled
• impelled
• marvelled
• misspelled
• modelled
• panelled

Kids Definition

handheld

adjective

hand·​held -ˌheld 

: held in the hand

especially : designed to be used while being held in the hand

a handheld computer

handheld noun