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

The argument here is that if too many people feel comfortable showing up empty-handed, the potluck won’t be much of a meal at all. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 1 Apr. 2026

He was nominated again in two categories in 2008, but came up empty-handed. —Dallas Morning News, 29 Mar. 2026

The affidavit states Cavender was seen entering empty-handed and later carrying several bottles of liquor from the business. —Raul Trey Lopez, San Antonio Express-News, 26 Mar. 2026

Prospective ticket buyers who had pre-registered for McCartney’s two concerts at the 1200-capacity Fonda were informed by Ticketmaster on Wednesday as to whether they had been selected for the chance to go, with the vast majority, naturally, coming away empty-handed. —Chris Willman, Variety, 26 Mar. 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