handheld

adjective

hand·​held ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
-ˈheld
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be operated while being held in the hand
handheld computers
handheld
ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
noun

Examples of handheld 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.
For a more modern approach, a handheld frother blends matcha powder with milk for a smooth, silky drink. — Melissa Knific, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 June 2026 Using a handheld immersion blender, blend mixture until nearly smooth. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026 Parker Kilpatrick, meanwhile, always has a handheld electric fan and a folding hand fan to combat the Texas heat. — Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 27 June 2026 The handheld optics world is entering a new wave of advancements with the advent of smart binoculars that can identify stars and animals directly through the eyepieces. — Harry Bennett, Space.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for handheld

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handheld was in 1891

Rhymes for handheld

See All Rhymes for handheld

Browse Nearby Words

handhabend
handheld
handhold
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handheld.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handheld. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

handheld

adjective
hand·​held -ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be used while being held in the hand
a handheld computer
handheld noun

More from Merriam-Webster on handheld

Nglish: Translation of handheld for Spanish Speakers

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