handheld

adjective

hand·​held ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
-ˈheld
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be operated while being held in the hand
handheld computers
handheld noun

Examples of handheld in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The handheld dessert treat consists of a creamy custard stuffed between a flaky, doughy crust that's glazed in sugar and topped with mini rainbow sprinkles. Emily Rella, PEOPLE, 11 Nov. 2025 The franchise was born to be run on handheld devices — where all puzzle games truly thrive — and for this, there’s a few options. Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 11 Nov. 2025 Armed with small handheld RFID readers, thieves can wirelessly scan credit cards or passports from a short distance to capture chip data and clone cards without ever touching your wallet. Claire Gallam, Travel + Leisure, 10 Nov. 2025 This handheld tool is similar to a large garlic press. Molly Allen, Southern Living, 10 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for handheld

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handheld was in 1891

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handheld.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handheld. Accessed 19 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

handheld

adjective
hand·​held -ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be used while being held in the hand
a handheld computer
handheld noun

More from Merriam-Webster on handheld

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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