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

Sure, a remake for the Nintendo 3DS was released all the way back in 2011, but that was 15 years ago and was also relegated to a handheld device. —Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 9 June 2026

According to State Industrial, ambient scenting systems typically cost more than handheld air fresheners because they are designed for continuous, whole-space coverage. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 8 June 2026

The result is a project that feels thoroughly coherent across different scales, linking handheld detail to grand gesture in a continuous architectural flow. —Justin Davidson, Curbed, 8 June 2026

Compared with handheld sprays or wax warmers, HVAC systems deliver more coverage and more intensity. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 8 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for handheld

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

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