handheld

adjective

hand·​held ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
-ˈheld
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be operated while being held in the hand
handheld computers
handheld noun

Examples of handheld in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The glowing grid, created in 1999 by French artist Pierre Huyghe, connects to handheld game controllers on a table below. Jim Geraghty, Washington Post, 10 Feb. 2026 One company aims to provide small, handheld kits that can detect up to five species in about 20 or 30 minutes without needing traditional lab equipment. Eve Bohnett, Fortune, 8 Feb. 2026 Canadian fans wearing red waved handheld flags. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 5 Feb. 2026 These handheld masterpieces may come with jagged edges and some discrepancy in hole size, but the flavor and texture are perfect every time. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handheld

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handheld was in 1891

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Cite this Entry

“Handheld.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handheld. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

handheld

adjective
hand·​held -ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be used while being held in the hand
a handheld computer
handheld noun

More from Merriam-Webster on handheld

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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