handful
|hand-ful|
B1
/ˈhænd.fʊl/
small quantity
Etymology
Etymology Information
'handful' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'handful,' where 'hand' meant 'hand' and '-ful' meant 'full of.'
Historical Evolution
'handful' changed from the Old English word 'handful' and has remained largely unchanged in modern English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'as much as can be held in the hand,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'a small number or amount.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a small quantity or number.
She grabbed a handful of nuts from the bowl.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a person or group that is difficult to manage or control.
The children were a handful during the trip.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35