handed

American  

[han-did] / ˈhæn dɪd /

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).

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-handed British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of handed

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

Example Sentences

“She had to go on her dad’s insurance because it was too expensive,” Lanning said, as one of her students ran up and handed her a protest sign.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Coincidentally, I’m sure, a UAE government-backed company handed World Liberty a $2 billion investment in its stablecoin.

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2026

Participants were handed a faixa—a long sash to wrap around their waists to protect their spines and give climbers a toehold.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

She was fined £40 on Monday, ordered to pay compensation of £776.98 to five of her victims and handed a 12-month community order at the same court.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

As I handed mine to the officer, she pointed to the simple gold ring that had belonged to Mama.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom