handy

1 of 2

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

handiness

2 of 2

noun

hand·​i·​ness

ˈhandēnə̇s, 

ˈhaan-, 

-din-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being handy

Synonyms of handy

Adjective

• convenient
• accessible

Examples of handy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

This is where a little creativity in approach comes in handy. — Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 11 Sep. 2026

Amazon has marked down thousands of travel essentials, from cozy clothing and comfortable shoes to durable luggage, travel bags, and handy accessories that make getting from point A to point B a little easier. — Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 10 Sep. 2026

That could come in handy in Republican-leaning areas like Cabarrus, where Democrats do not necessarily need to win to improve their statewide position. — Luke Fountain,megan Cassella, CNBC, 10 Sep. 2026

Plus, don’t miss out on handy finds like this handheld vacuum that makes quick work of small messes in tight spaces and an insulated Yeti tumbler that keeps water cold all day long. — Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 6 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

handy + -ness

First Known Use

Adjective

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