upper hand

noun

: mastery, advantage, control
was determined not to let the opposition get the upper hand

Examples of upper hand in a Sentence

finally gained the upper hand in the argument
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.
Those deep ties might give EssilorLuxottica or L’Oréal an upper hand compared to LVMH. Giacomo Tognini, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025 The Northern Sea Route is generally viewed as more developed and regulated, with Moscow investing heavily in infrastructure as part of a broader campaign to gain an upper hand in the Arctic. Tom O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025 Trump has 'upper hand' on Democrats in crime debate, MSNBC guest admits. FOXNews.com, 28 Aug. 2025 Employers regain upper hand in job market There is no longer a wage growth advantage for workers who switch into new jobs, according to research by Bank of America. Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for upper hand

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upper hand was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Upper hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upper%20hand. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

upper hand

noun
: the position of being ahead or in control

More from Merriam-Webster on upper hand

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