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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Republicans led by former President Donald Trump still have an upper hand, largely because the GOP is still seen as the party with stronger free-market allegiances. Philip Elliott, TIME, 30 Oct. 2024 Its products have been credited as key to Turkey gaining an upper hand in its fight against Kurdish militants. Qassim Abdul-Zahra, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2024 Its UAVs have been instrumental in Turkey gaining an upper hand in its fight against Kurdish militants. Suzan Fraser, The Christian Science Monitor, 24 Oct. 2024 Ralston Valley 6-1 6 W (47-7 vs. Denver South) Comment: Mustangs one of those rare programs that have had upper hand on Columbine recently. Matt Schubert, The Denver Post, 14 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near upper hand

Cite this Entry

“Upper hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upper%20hand. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

upper hand

noun
: the position of being ahead or in control

More from Merriam-Webster on upper hand

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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