Handy

/ˈhæn.di/ · adjective

Meaning

Easy to use, useful..

Definitions by Sense

1. Easy to use, useful.
2. Nearby, within reach.
3. Dexterous, skilful. (of a person)
4. (slang) Physically violent; tending to use one's fists.
5. Of a freight ship: having a small cargo capacity (less than 40,000 DWT); belonging to the handysize class.
6. (childish) The hand.
7. (MLE, slang) A handgun.
8. (vulgar, slang) A hand job.

Example Sentences

Some people regard duct tape as a handy fix-all.

You wouldn’t have a screwdriver handy, would you?

I keep a first-aid kit handy in case of emergency.

Have you a sheet of paper handy?

And finally, have potholders and a stack of old towels handy before you begin. Dye splashes and drips may occur, so protect surfaces and be prepared to clean countertops.

She's very handy: she made all her own kitchen cupboards.

We had a sergeant who was a bit handy with the rougher elements. He dealt with them a little bit differently to what I do.

The Sloanes said he had nothing on them, that he threatened them, made up a lot of lies. Tried to attack them, got a bit handy.

Synonyms for handy

Antonyms for handy

Related Words

Word Forms

• handier
• handiest
• hendy
• handies

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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