handy

adjective

ˈhan-dē 

handier; handiest

1

a

: conveniently near

b

: convenient for use

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

• convenient
• accessible

Examples of handy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Or perhaps try out microcurrents with a handy starter kit or treat yourself to luxury brands like Augustinus Bader. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 8 Aug. 2025

And, in turn, the more usage and the increase in users using the AI is a handy boon to the business and revenue of the AI maker. —Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025

There is enough open space beneath this laptop stand to accommodate a separate keyboard, handy when used with a tablet computer. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 8 Aug. 2025

Featuring a large center pocket that’s perfect for storing handy kitchen tools, a storage loop for towels adjacent to the pocket, and a comfortable, adjustable neckline, this product will be the apron of your dreams. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2025

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