handles

noun

The part of an object which is (designed to be) held in the hand when used or moved.

An instrument for effecting a purpose (either literally or figuratively); a tool, or an opportunity or pretext.

(gambling) The gross amount of wagering within a given period of time or for a given event at one of more establishments.

(textiles) The tactile qualities of a fabric, e.g., softness, firmness, elasticity, fineness, resilience, and other qualities perceived by touch.

(slang) A name or nickname, especially as an identifier over the radio or Internet.

(slang) A title attached to one's name, such as Doctor or Colonel.

(computing) A reference to an object or structure that can be stored in a variable.

(UK, informal) A traditional dimpled glass with a handle, for serving a pint of beer.

(Australia, chiefly Northern Territory, New Zealand) A 10 fluid ounce (285 mL) glass of beer.

(US) A half-gallon (1.75-liter) bottle of alcohol.

(topology) A topological space homeomorphic to a ball but viewed as a product of two lower-dimensional balls.

(algebraic geometry) The smooth, irreducible subcurve of a comb which connects to each of the other components in exactly one point.

(slang) A person's nose.

(horse racing, gambling) The amount wagered in the various pari-mutuel pools for a particular event or events.

(geography, Newfoundland and Labrador, rare) A point, an extremity of land.

verb

(transitive) To touch; to feel or hold with the hand(s).

(transitive) To manage, use, or wield with the hands.

(transitive) To manage, control, or direct.

(transitive) To treat, to deal with (in a specified way).

(transitive) To deal with (a subject, argument, topic, or theme) in speaking, in writing, or in art.

(transitive) To receive and transfer; to have pass through one's hands; hence, to buy and sell.

(transitive) To put up with; to endure (and continue to function).

(intransitive) To use the hands.

(soccer, intransitive) To illegally touch the ball with the hand or arm; to commit handball.

(intransitive) To behave in a particular way when handled (managed, controlled, directed).

(transitive, rare) To accustom to the hand; to take care of with the hands.

(transitive, rare) To be concerned with; to be an expert in.

Synonyms & related words for handles

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Words related to handles

Explore words related to handles — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include ansate, handgrip, rehandle, handled, manage, handling, grip, wield. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.