upper hand

noun

: mastery, advantage, control
was determined not to let the opposition get the upper hand

Examples of upper hand in a Sentence

finally gained the upper hand in the argument
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yesterday, Trump told reporters on Air Force One that China was holding up the sale, suggesting that China may have an upper hand in TikTok negotiations, and perhaps TikTok is losing its sheen as a US bargaining chip in Trump's bigger trade war. ArsTechnica, 18 June 2025 In a back and forth game, the Pioneers got an upper hand and secured an 52-44 victory. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Feb. 2025 In a Game 5 rout in Toronto, Tkachuk’s line was dominant, with a 16-3 advantage on attempts, a 9-1 edge on scoring chances, a 71 percent expected goal share and a 1-0 upper hand on goals, with Tkachuk assisting on Dmitry Kulikov’s winner. Michael Russo, New York Times, 20 May 2025 Catch Up On The Story Stars, Mikko Rantanen gain upper hand on Jets with Game 3 victory: Takeaways The Stars scored three third-period goals to break a tie and earn a 5-2 win in Game 3 and a 2-1 series lead. Murat Ates, New York Times, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for upper hand

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upper hand was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Upper hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upper%20hand. Accessed 27 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

upper hand

noun
: the position of being ahead or in control

More from Merriam-Webster on upper hand

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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