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

Her ability to adapt has also come in handy. —Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 26 May 2026

The Logitech Signature Comfort Plus M850 L has two buttons, scroll wheel, third button as well as two side switches, which are handy for web browsing. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026

And break up the monochromatic pieces with a cardigan tied around your waist for some definition (and a handy extra layer, in case the temperature changes). —Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 25 May 2026

Green beans, mushrooms, leeks, potato, and handy rotisserie chicken make this creamy casserole a true one-dish meal. —Ginger Crichton, Midwest Living, 24 May 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