handle

¹han·dle

noun \ˈhan-d^əl\

Definition of HANDLE

1

: a part that is designed especially to be grasped by the hand

2

: something that resembles a handle

3

a : title 8 b : name; also : nickname

4

: hand 11c

5

: the total amount of money bet on a race, game, or event

6

: a means of understanding or controlling <can't quite get a handle on things>

— han·dled \-d^əld\ adjective

— han·dle·less \-d^əl-(l)əs\ adjective

— off the handle

: into a state of sudden and violent anger —usually used with fly

Examples of HANDLE

1. He held the shovel by the handle.
2. The handles on the bag were torn.

Origin of HANDLE

Middle English handel, from Old English handle; akin to Old English hand

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to HANDLE

Synonyms: grip, haft, handgrip, helve

Related Words: bar, handlebar; bail, bow, loop; hilt, shaft; crop, whipstock; broomstick

see all synonyms and antonyms

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