handy

adjective

ˈhan-dē 

handier; handiest

1

a

: conveniently near

keeps his dictionary handy

b

: convenient for use

a handy little tool

The extra batteries came in handy during the blackout.

c

of a ship : easily handled

2

: clever in using the hands especially in a variety of useful ways

handy with a hammer as well as with a paintbrush

handiness noun

Synonyms of handy

• convenient
• accessible

Examples of handy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her business came in handy to make things happen for the event. — Zuri Primos july 16, Kansas City Star, 16 July 2026

The bucket hat was already coming in handy, but sadly, the tops of my legs that weren’t covered by my shorts were suffering within minutes. — Jerry Perez, The Drive, 15 July 2026

That’s where frozen seafood, such as salmon or shrimp, comes in handy. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 15 July 2026

The humble pen offers a very handy, easy-to-carry form factor for writing, so why not use it for other tasks, too? — Ben Coxworth july 14, New Atlas, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing handy

• come in handy
• handy-dandy
• handy for

Rhymes for handy

• bandy
• brandy
• candy
• dandy
• grandee
• randy
• shandy

Kids Definition

handy

adjective

ˈhan-dē 

handier; handiest

1

a

: conveniently near

b

: easily handled or used

a handy sloop

a handy reference book

2

: clever in using the hands : dexterous

handy with a needle

Biographical Definition

Handy

biographical name

Han·​dy ˈhan-dē 

W(illiam) C(hristopher) 1873–1958 American blues musician