handbook

American  

[hand-book] / ˈhændˌbʊk /

noun

1. a book of instruction or guidance, as for an occupation; manual.

   a handbook of radio.

2. a guidebook for travelers.

   a handbook of Italy.

3. a reference book in a particular field.

   a medical handbook.

4. a scholarly book on a specific subject, often consisting of separate essays or articles.

   a handbook of lectures on criticism.

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handbook British  

/ ˈhændˌbʊk /

noun

1. a reference book listing brief facts on a subject or place or directions for maintenance or repair, as of a car

   a tourists' handbook

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Etymology

Origin of handbook

Translation of German Handbuch

Example Sentences

Participants were assigned to different family groups and used a government civil-defense handbook as a reference.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Bird by Bird,” her 1994 writing handbook, which has sold more than 1 million copies and continues to sell approximately 40,000 copies each year, became a meme before there were memes.

From Los Angeles Times

I want to add that if comments about your appearance persist, you might want to consult your employee handbook and ask HR.

From MarketWatch

He’s clearly memorized the handbook for horrible brothers.

From Literature

You appear to be quite familiar with the Social Security Administration’s handbook, but I would also recommend reviewing and highlighting Sections 401-409 on widow’s benefits before your next meeting with the agency.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• directory
• guidebook
• manual
• text
• textbook