handed

adjective

hand·​ed ˈhan-dəd How to pronounce handed (audio)
Synonyms of handednext
1
: having a hand or hands especially of a specified kind or number
—usually used in combination
a large-handed man
2
: using a specified hand or number of hands
—used in combination
right-handed
a one-handed catch

Examples of handed 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.
Mikheyev should be good for anywhere between 10 to 20 goals, including the odd one short-handed. — Jonas Siegel, New York Times, 23 June 2026 The selection of Iglesias marks the first time in the right-handed pitcher’s 11-plus seasons he has been named an All-Star. — Gabriel Burns, AJC.com, 4 July 2026 The Red Sox squandered a golden opportunity early, loading the bases in the top of the first and coming away empty handed, but made up for it with a big second inning. — Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 7 July 2026 Patrick Evans made it to the top step of the Motocross Best Trick event with his electric bike, whipping out a no-handed front flip to loud cheers from the crowd before climbing back up the ramp to celebrate. — Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for handed

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handed was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing handed

Rhymes for handed

See All Rhymes for handed

Browse Nearby Words

H and D system
handed
handedness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handed. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

handed

adjective
hand·​ed ˈhan-dəd How to pronounce handed (audio)
: having or using such or so many hands
a right-handed person
handedness noun

Medical Definition

handed

adjective
hand·​ed ˈhan-dəd How to pronounce handed (audio)
1
: having a hand or hands especially of a specified kind or number
—usually used in combination
a large-handed man
2
: using a specified hand or number of hands
—used in combination
right-handed

More from Merriam-Webster on handed

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for handed

Nglish: Translation of handed for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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