hands-down

[ handz-doun ]

adjective

1. easy:

   a hands-down victory.

2. certain:

   a book destined to be a hands-down bestseller.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hands-down¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

“For you to respond by dropping your hands down in blatant disrespect, by a Majors son no less!”

From Los Angeles Times

“He’s a Hall of Fame quarterback, hands down,” tackle Rob Havenstein said.

From Los Angeles Times

Can't believe what I'm reading... in an industry full of Ego you were hands down one of the nicest fellas we ever met along the way.

From BBC

“Not the best deal and not the best Costco entree, but in a pinch I'd probably buy it again. That being said, between this or Food Court pizza, pizza is hands down the better choice.”

From Salon

Porter said Monday that he’ll accept whatever punishment the NBA hands down but that he is grateful to be back in the league.

From Los Angeles Times