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

He handed over the reins of the military to loyalist and former spymaster Ye Win Oo on Monday.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

He was handed to DEA agents, who flew him to the United States, where he will stand trial.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Moving to London from her native California for a master's degree, Deryn Harris was another who handed over a deposit for a room in Priestley's flat.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Two weeks after Ashaal’s kidnapping, Hani handed the recording and his analysis to authorities.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

When Oliver handed my book back to me, I took it and stuffed it into my bag.

From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows