handshake

noun

hand·​shake ˈhan(d)-ˌshāk 

: a clasping usually of right hands by two people (as in greeting or farewell)

Examples of handshake in a Sentence

She greeted him with a handshake.

He has a firm handshake.

Recent Examples on the Web

Omari Hutchinson arrives with a relaxed smile and a friendly handshake. — Paul Taylor, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026

In the movie, Peter and Ned instinctively perform their signature handshake despite the memory-altering events of No Way Home. — Lily Brown, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026

Despite heartbreaking moments, like MJ not remembering him, the movie is praised for its emotional depth, action, and Tom Holland's irreplaceable portrayal, culminating in a bittersweet ending where a handshake offers a glimmer of hope. — Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026

He was seen entering the dugout and receiving hugs and handshakes from teammates. — Kansas City Star, 2 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing handshake

• golden handshake

Rhymes for handshake

• awake
• backache
• beefsteak
• betake
• cheesecake
• cupcake
• daybreak
• earthquake
• forsake
• gouache
• headache
• heartache

Kids Definition

handshake

noun

hand·​shake -ˌshāk 

: a clasping of hands by two people especially in greeting or farewell