handbook

noun

hand·​book ˈhan(d)-ˌbu̇k 

1

a

: a book capable of being conveniently carried as a ready reference : manual

b

: a concise reference book covering a particular subject

2

a

: a bookmaker's book of bets

b

: a place where bookmaking is carried on

Synonyms of handbook

• manual
• textbook
• text
• dictionary

Examples of handbook in a Sentence

a handbook of grammar

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the Chesterton High School handbook, the penalty for a first-time truancy offense is two hours of after-school detention. —Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026

There's no universal handbook for buyers who want to stay on the right side of ethics. —Shaun McKinnon, AZCentral.com, 9 Mar. 2026

They’re tasked with enforcing the rules, which are printed in a 31-page handbook accessible to students, and run a Slack channel that informs occupants of upcoming events and when there is free food available, among other announcements. —David Ubben, New York Times, 6 Mar. 2026

That included new language in its sports handbooks, and a more hands-on role in Blue Devils’ NIL opportunities. —Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 3 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for handbook

• betook
• casebook
• chapbook
• checkbook
• chinook
• codebook
• cookbook
• fishhook
• forsook
• guidebook
• hornbook
• logbook

Kids Definition

handbook

noun

hand·​book -ˌbu̇k 

: a small book of facts or useful information usually about a particular subject : manual