handy Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun United States blues musician who transcribed and published traditional blues music (1873-1958)
    W. C. Handy; William Christopher Handy.
  2. adjective satellite easy to reach
    ready to hand.
    • found a handy spot for the can opener
  3. adjective satellite easy to use
    • a handy gadget
  4. adjective satellite skillful with the hands
    • handy with an axe

WordNet

Hand"y adjective
Etymology
OE. hendi, AS. hendig (in comp.), fr. hand hand; akin to D. handig, Goth. handugs clever, wise.
Wordforms
comparative Handier ; superlative Handiest
Definitions
  1. Performed by the hand. Obs.
    To draw up and come to handy strokes. Milton.
  2. Skillful in using the hand; dexterous; ready; adroit. "Each is handy in his way." Dryden.
  3. Ready to the hand; near; also, suited to the use of the hand; convenient; valuable for reference or use; as, my tools are handy; a handy volume.
  4. (Naut.) Easily managed; obedient to the helm; -- said of a vessel.

Webster 1913