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

Dan Ndoye is capable of playing in a central attacking role and Morgan Gibbs-White has looked handy playing in a more advanced role. —Paul Taylor, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026

Transforming old pillows into new items, not only reduces waste, but also creates functional pieces that can be quite handy to hand around the house. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 4 Feb. 2026

Vessel Sinks Martinez recommends having a microfiber cloth handy and wiping down the countertop and the space between the sink and the countertop immediately after each use before the water dries. —Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 4 Feb. 2026

If your entryway or mudroom is cluttered with shoes, a handy yet sleek storage system is the way to go—and this model by Steelside (with nearly 3,500 perfect five-star ratings) is currently 75% off. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 2026

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