handier; handiest
1
a
: conveniently near
b
: convenient for use
c
of a ship : easily handled
2
: clever in using the hands especially in a variety of useful ways
handy with a hammer as well as with a paintbrush
handiness noun

Examples of handy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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If you’re newly inspired to work through those questions and more, check out The Times’ handy guide on all things earthquake preparedness. Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 6 Dec. 2024 Here's a handy guide to what should be cleaned, disinfected, or replaced routinely. Alyssa Shaffer, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Dec. 2024 The reason many are still not filing their tax returns is likely due to a handy loophole in federal law. Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024 On top of the money earned from competing, gaining points, and making the latter rounds, winning the final again would pocket a handy €25 million ($26 million). Henry Flynn, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for handy 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of handy was circa 1525

Dictionary Entries Near handy

Cite this Entry

“Handy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handy. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

handy

adjective
handier; handiest
1
a
: conveniently near
b
: easily handled or used
a handy sloop
a handy reference book
2
: clever in using the hands : dexterous
handy with a needle

Biographical Definition

Handy

biographical name

Han·​dy ˈhan-dē How to pronounce Handy (audio)
W(illiam) C(hristopher) 1873–1958 American blues musician

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