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.
Plus, the pants come with handy pockets for your phone, keys, or wallet — because who needs a bag when you’ve got built-in convenience? Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2024 However, that cash supply might come in handy after the Nov. 5 presidential election, with the markets jittery ahead of the tightly fought contest. David Faris, Newsweek, 2 Nov. 2024 This is where the Abound and Interval programs come in handy. Kim Westerman, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 Although an app isn't absolutely necessary for flying the drone, there is one (iOS and Android) which definitely comes in handy. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 29 Oct. 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 25 Nov. 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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