handed

[han-did]

adjective

1. having or involving a hand or hands (usually used in combination).

   two-handed backhand; a four-handed piano work.

2. using a particular hand (usually used in combination).

   right-handed.

3. having, requiring, or with the number of people, workers, or players indicated (usually used in combination).

   a three-handed game of poker.

4. manned; staffed (usually used in combination).

-handed

adjective

1. having a hand or hands as specified

   broad-handed

   a four-handed game of cards

2. made as specified for either left- or right-hand operation or positioning

Word History and Origins

Origin of handed¹

First recorded in 1520–30; hand + -ed ³

Example Sentences

“They fought, they bled, they struggled, they died for us. They built this country for us. America, in all its glory, is their gift to us, handed down across the generations. It belongs to us. It’s our birthright, our heritage, our destiny. If America is everything and everyone, then it is nothing and no one at all. But we know that’s not true. America is not a ‘universal nation.’

From Slate

Crossland, of Everill Gate Lane, Wombwell, Barnsley, who pleaded guilty to violent disorder and arson with intent to endanger life, was handed one of the longest sentences in connection with the Manvers riot at Sheffield Crown Court on Friday.

From BBC

Knight, of The Crescent, Bolton-upon-Dearne, was handed a 20-month sentence suspended for two years along with 50 sessions of rehabilitation activity and must return to court for periodic reviews by the judge.

From BBC

Morwenna Talling, more usually a second row, will attempt to stake her claim to a back-row spot after being handed the six shirt.

From BBC

Number eight Alex Matthews admitted she was taken aback to be handed the captaincy.

From BBC