Handy

Definition

Handy typically means skillful with the hands or being conveniently nearby or easily accessible.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhændi/
• Respelling: HAN-dee (with "HAN" as in "hand" and "dee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhændi/
• Respelling: HAN-dee (with "HAN" as in "hand" and "dee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "handy" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "HAN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "HAN-dee."

Etymology

The term "handy" comes from the word "hand" with the adjective suffix "-y." It originated from Old English "handig" which meant "handy, convenient," and is related to the Old Norse "hendig" meaning "handy, dexterous."

Derivatives

• Handiness (noun)
• Handier (adjective, comparative)
• Handiest (adjective, superlative)
• Handily (adverb)
• Handiness (noun)

Synonyms

• Convenient
• Useful
• Dexterous

Antonyms

• Inconvenient
• Unskilled
• Clumsy

Usage

"Handy" is frequently used to describe tools or gadgets that are useful or easy to use. It can also describe a person's practical skills, especially in tasks involving manual dexterity or craftsmanship.

Related Terms

• Hand
• Skill
• Craftsmanship
• Proficiency
• Aptitude

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Convenient and Easily Accessible: Something that is close at hand or easy to use.
  • Example: Keep a flashlight handy in case of a power outage.

• Skillful and Competent: Describing a person who is good at using their hands or skilled in practical tasks.
  • Example: She's quite handy with tools and can fix almost anything around the house.

• Versatile and Useful: An object that serves multiple purposes or is very useful.
  • Example: A Swiss Army knife is a handy tool to have when camping.