Main Entry: hand·some

Pronunciation: \ˈhan(t)-səm\

Function: adjective

Inflected Form(s): hand·som·er; hand·som·est

Etymology: Middle English handsom easy to manipulate

Date: 1530

1 chiefly dialect : appropriate, suitable
2 : moderately large : sizable <a painting that commanded a handsome price>
3 : marked by skill or cleverness : adroit
4 : marked by graciousness or generosity : liberal <handsome contributions to charity>
5 : having a pleasing and usually impressive or dignified appearance

synonyms see beautiful

— hand·some·ly adverb

— hand·some·ness noun