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
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.
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 15 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

More from Merriam-Webster on handy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!