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

Foley Fork Also called a blending fork, this handy utensil was used to mash potatoes, blend fats into flour, beat eggs, stir sauces, and whisk dressings. —Joey Skladany, Southern Living, 16 Dec. 2025

Just be sure to keep a few extra stones and a little glue handy in case any of the gems don't quite make it to the New Year's countdown. —Marci Robin, Allure, 16 Dec. 2025

When the Minnesota Vikings host the Detroit Lions on Christmas Day, fans may want to have their gin and juice handy come halftime. —Anthony Bettin, CBS News, 16 Dec. 2025

Just make sure to keep a good hair oil handy—the magic is in those fresh, healthy looking ends. —Grace McCarty, Glamour, 15 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing handy

• came in 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