handyman

[ han-dee-man ]

noun

, plural hand·y·men.

1. a person hired to do various small jobs, especially in the maintenance of an apartment building, office building, or the like.

handyman

/ ˈhændɪˌmæn /

noun

1. a man employed to do various tasks
2. a man skilled in odd jobs, etc

Gender Note

See -man.

Word History and Origins

Origin of handyman¹

First recorded in 1870–75; handy + man

Example Sentences

While being a handyman might be a desirable trait, it is not compulsory.

From BBC

“Instead, Mr. Johnston has worked as a handyman for the last two years — an obvious far cry from his actual expertise and livelihood in film and television,” Woodward wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Johnston has "essentially been blacklisted by Hollywood" and "has worked as a handyman for the last two years – an obvious far cry from his actual expertise and livelihood in film and television", Mr Woodward argued.

From BBC

Criminal proceedings against a handyman who prosecutors say fatally shot a beloved L.A. bishop last year were suspended Thursday after attorneys raised doubts about his competence to stand trial.

From Los Angeles Times

His passport, along with the tools he uses for his job as a handyman, were inside the car and were also destroyed.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• helper