empty-handed

adjective

emp·​ty-hand·​ed ˌem(p)-tē-ˈhan-dəd 

1

: having or bringing nothing

2

: having acquired or gained nothing

came back empty-handed

Examples of empty-handed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

They would have been averted if the two sides reached a trade deal, but Canada's negotiators left Washington empty-handed on Friday evening. — Kevin Breuninger,michael Wayland, CNBC, 24 Aug. 2026

But mostly the fans at shows reach out empty-handed—no cellphones, hardly any cameras. — Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2026

In the finale, after anticipating John’s attempt to run away with the money, Lucky sends Cary’s laptop and the seed phrase to the FBI, leaving her father empty-handed. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 19 Aug. 2026

That means nearly two out of three times, a film lands two supporting actress nominations, and both women go home empty-handed. — Clayton Davis, Variety, 24 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for empty-handed

• countermanded
• evenhanded
• reprimanded
• underhanded
• backhanded
• commanded
• demanded
• disbanded
• expanded
• misbranded
• remanded
• unbranded

Kids Definition

empty-handed

adjective

emp·​ty-hand·​ed

ˌem(p)-tē-ˈhan-dəd

1

: having nothing in the hands

2

: having acquired or gained nothing

came back empty-handed