handle
han-dle · noun, verb
Definitions
noun, verb
- 1.
The part of an object designed to be grasped or held by the hand.
- 2.
To touch, hold, or move with the hands.
- 3.
(Informal) A nickname or username.
- 4.
To manage, deal with, or control a situation or person.
- 5.
An opportunity or means to understand or control something.
- 6.
To buy and sell; to trade in.
Forms
plural: handles
Phrases & expressions
- •get a handle on — To understand or gain control of something
- •fly off the handle — To suddenly become very angry
- •handle with care — To treat gently or cautiously
- •too hot to handle — Too dangerous or controversial to deal with
Related words
Etymology
From Old English handle, related to hand. The noun form derived from the verb, meaning "that by which something is held."