right hand

¹

noun

1. the hand that is on the right side, or the side opposite that where the heart is.
2. the right side, as of a person, especially this side considered as the side of precedence or courtesy.
3. a position of honor or special trust.
4. an extremely efficient or reliable person or, sometimes, tool, especially a person considered as one's assistant.

right-hand

²

[ rahyt-hand ]

adjective

1. on the right.
2. of, for, or with the right hand.
3. most reliable, valuable, or useful, as a helper or assistant.
4. plain-laid.
5. Also Building Trades.
   1. (of a door) having the hinges on the right when seen from the exterior of the building, room, closet, etc., to which the doorway leads.
   2. (of a casement sash) having the hinges on the right when seen from inside the window.

right-hand

adjective

1. of, relating to, located on, or moving towards the right

   this car has right-hand drive

   a right-hand bend

2. for use by the right hand; right-handed
3. right-hand man
   one's most valuable assistant or supporter

Word History and Origins

Origin of right hand¹

before 1000; Middle English; Old English

Origin of right hand²

adj. use of right hand

Related Words

• crucial
• fundamental
• imperative
• important
• indispensable
• main
• necessary
• needed
• vital