right-hand

1 of 2

adjective

1
: situated on the right
2
3
: chiefly relied on
his right-hand man

right hand

2 of 2

noun

1
a
: the hand on a person's right side
b
: an indispensable person
2
a
: the right side
b
: a place of honor

Examples of right-hand 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.
Adjective
The film centers on American psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Malek), who is tasked with determining whether Nazi prisoners are fit to stand trial for their war crimes and finds himself in a complex battle of wits with Hermann Göring (Crowe), Hitler’s right-hand man. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 26 June 2025 Ramirez’s patrol car showed the suspects speed into a right-hand turn from Lundy Avenue and merge into oncoming traffic on westbound Berryessa Avenue. Rick Hurd, Mercury News, 23 June 2025
Noun
His right hand and arm were wrapped in a thick white bandage that covered his fingers and extended halfway to his elbow. Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 18 June 2025 As Clark dribbled down the lane, Sheldon reached in with her right hand and hit Clark in the face. Sabreena Merchant, New York Times, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for right-hand

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of right-hand was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Right-hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/right-hand. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

right-hand

adjective
ˈrīt-ˌhand
1
: located on the right
2
3
: relied on most of all
right-hand man

Medical Definition

right-hand

1 of 2 adjective
1
: situated on the right
2

right hand

2 of 2 noun
1
: the hand on a person's right side
2
: the right side

More from Merriam-Webster on right-hand

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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