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emp·ty-hand·ed | \ ˌem(p)-tē-ˈhan-dəd 
\
\Definition of empty-handed
1 : having or bringing nothing
2 : having acquired or gained nothing
came back empty-handed
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More Definitions for empty-handed
empty-handed
adjectiveEnglish Language Learners Definition of empty-handed
: without having, carrying, or bringing anything
See the full definition for empty-handed in the English Language Learners Dictionary
empty-handed
adjectiveemp·ty-hand·ed | \ ˌemp-tē-ˈhan-dəd \
Kids Definition of empty-handed
1 : not carrying or bringing anything
I can't show up at the party empty-handed.
2 : having gotten or gained nothing
He left the contest empty-handed.
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Time Traveler for empty-handed
The first known use of empty-handed was in 1549
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