handy

adjective

ˈhan-dē 

handier; handiest

1

a

: conveniently near

keeps his dictionary handy

b

: convenient for use

a handy little tool

The extra batteries came in handy during the blackout.

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

Synonyms of handy

• convenient
• accessible

Examples of handy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The unit also comes with a lineup of handy tools, including a two-in-one wide nozzle and brush tool for switching between tasks quickly as well as a crevice tool to help reach tight spaces, edges, and corners. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Nov. 2025

Some people may prefer a chewable gummy, while others might find mixing magnesium powder with their water handy after hitting the gym. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 13 Nov. 2025

That’s where a bargain buy from our good friends at ALDI comes in handy. —Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 13 Nov. 2025

The South Florida Water Management District has a handy tool where residents can enter their address and find out the phone numbers and email addresses for their local flood control officials. —Alex Harris, Miami Herald, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing handy

• came in handy
• come in handy
• handy dandy
• handy for

Rhymes for handy

• bandy
• brandy
• candy
• dandy
• grandee
• randy
• shandy

Kids Definition

handy

adjective

ˈhan-dē 

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 

W(illiam) C(hristopher) 1873–1958 American blues musician