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

There’s a kitchenette with a microwave and mini fridge, which comes in handy as there is no on-site restaurant. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2026

Little did Miku Martineau know that all those years spent lacing up hockey skates and practicing her volleyball serve would come in so handy. — Leigh Nordstrom, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Police officer Matt Parkman (Greg Grunberg) was able to read other people's minds, while prisoner DL Hawkins (Leonard Roberts) developed a handy penchant for walking through walls. — Richard Edwards, Space.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Those who received an email notice will need their unique login ID and PIN handy. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 28 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing 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