Synonyms

manhandle

American

[man-han-dl, man-han-dl] / ˈmænˌhæn dl, mænˈhæn dl /

verb (used with object)

manhandled, manhandling

to handle roughly.
to move by human strength, without the use of mechanical appliances.

manhandle British

/ ˌmænˈhændəl, ˈmænˌhændəl /

verb

to handle or push (someone) about roughly
to move or do by manpower rather than by machinery

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of manhandle

1425–75; late Middle English. See man, handle

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As long as he's not too tight at the weight then I think he can bully and manhandle Smith, being the naturally bigger guy.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2023

I know Chase Young can manhandle a blocking sled.

From Washington Times • Sep. 27, 2021

Update: The Bruins won’t be able to manhandle the Wildcats inside like they did outmanned Arizona State because Arizona features a far more imposing front line.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 8, 2021

Jackson returned to help the Ravens beat Dallas 34-17, storm past Cleveland 47-42 and manhandle Jacksonville 40-14.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 24, 2020

“Your mama sure makes a fine gingersnap. My mama always says she was born to manhandle a cast iron skillet but your mama was blessed with the lighter touch of a baker.”

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023