handheld

adjective

hand·​held ˈhan(d)-ˌheld 

-ˈheld

: held in the hand

especially : designed to be operated while being held in the hand

handheld computers

handheld

ˈhan(d)-ˌheld 

noun

Examples of handheld in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This set includes a handheld grout brush and a brush with a long telescopic handle for those hard-to-reach spots. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 10 Mar. 2026

Designed for ease of use by curious novices and students alike, Bubo consists of a handheld digital microscope unit powered by a 3,000-mAh battery that charges via USB-C (and can be used while charging), along with a desktop base powered by a 4,000-mAh battery. —Shirl Leigh march 10, New Atlas, 10 Mar. 2026

In 2023, officers issued 593 citations for using a handheld device while driving. —Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 10 Mar. 2026

Trowels and handheld weeding tools work best for removing weeds in lawns, as hoes and other tools cannot be used on turf. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for handheld

• barrelled
• beheld
• chiselled
• compelled
• dispelled
• excelled
• expelled
• impelled
• marvelled
• misspelled
• modelled
• panelled

Kids Definition

handheld

adjective

hand·​held -ˌheld 

: held in the hand

especially : designed to be used while being held in the hand

a handheld computer

handheld noun