handles
|han-dles|
🇺🇸
/ˈhændəlz/
🇬🇧
/ˈhænd(ə)lz/
(handle)
grip or manage
Etymology
'handle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'handlian' (from 'hand'), where 'hand' meant 'hand'.
'handle' changed from Old English 'handlian' to Middle English 'handlen' and eventually became the modern English word 'handle'.
Initially, it meant 'to touch or feel with the hand', but over time it evolved into its current meanings including 'to grasp (a physical part) or to manage/deal with'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a part of an object designed to be held in the hand to move, carry, or open it (plural form).
The suitcase has two sturdy handles.
Synonyms
Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'handle': to manage, deal with, or be responsible for (something or someone).
She handles customer complaints professionally.
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Antonyms
Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'handle' in the sense of touching or operating something physically.
He handles the equipment with great care.
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Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/29 02:10