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
ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
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.
Circular saws are handheld saws with a powerful motor, a large cutting blade, and a trigger to activate the blade. — Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 July 2026 Anyone viewing a partial solar eclipse should wear certified solar eclipse glasses or use a handheld solar viewer that meets the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard, NASA recommends. — ABC News, 13 July 2026 However, George was seen keeping cool in the heat with a handheld fan. — Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 12 July 2026 Luckily, George was able to keep cool by wearing a sunhat and sunglasses at different points throughout the tournament, and by using a handheld fan to blow air onto his face. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 12 July 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

Rhymes for handheld

See All Rhymes for handheld

Browse Nearby Words

handhabend
handheld
handhold
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handheld.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handheld. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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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

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Nglish: Translation of handheld for Spanish Speakers

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