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

Employers may need to review job postings, employee handbooks, payroll procedures, contracts, and other documents as the new rules take effect. — Steven M. Frederick, Hartford Courant, 3 Nov. 2026

According to the ballot board handbook, an equal number of people from each party that is on the ballot for that election must be appointed to handle ballots from lists provided by the parties. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Nov. 2026

Here is the full, unedited, description of the traditional pop vocal album category, from the 69th Grammy Rules & Guidelines handbook. — Paul Grein, Billboard, 19 Oct. 2026

The industry- and lifestyle-focused podcast serves as an audio handbook for songwriters, sharing best practices and insider pro tips for surviving and thriving in this difficult-to-navigate creative space. — Lily Moayeri, Rolling Stone, 18 Oct. 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
• logbook
• mistook

Kids Definition

handbook

noun

hand·​book -ˌbu̇k 

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