handy

adjective

ˈhan-dē 

handier; handiest

1

a

: conveniently near

b

: convenient for use

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

Synonyms

• accessible
• convenient
• reachable

Examples of handy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Plus, the pants come with handy pockets for your phone, keys, or wallet — because who needs a bag when you’ve got built-in convenience? —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2024

However, that cash supply might come in handy after the Nov. 5 presidential election, with the markets jittery ahead of the tightly fought contest. —David Faris, Newsweek, 2 Nov. 2024

This is where the Abound and Interval programs come in handy. —Kim Westerman, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

Although an app isn't absolutely necessary for flying the drone, there is one (iOS and Android) which definitely comes in handy. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing handy

• come in handy
• handy dandy
• handy for

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