handpick

verb

hand·​pick ˈhan(d)-ˈpik How to pronounce handpick (audio)
handpicked; handpicking; handpicks
Synonyms of handpicknext

transitive verb

1
: to pick by hand as opposed to a machine process
2
: to select personally or for personal ends

Synonyms of handpick

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Examples of handpick in a Sentence

They run a farm where you can handpick fresh strawberries. a box of handpicked strawberries The executive handpicked her successor.
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.
Wear gloves to handpick small numbers, then drop into a bucket of soapy water. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 22 June 2026 State law calls for the City Council to handpick her successor in the meantime. — Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026 Tony serves as chief executive while Josephine handpicks much of the store’s merchandise. — Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026 Baer said the company’s business model, which handpicks items and styles for customers, can help shoppers going through a major life change. — Melissa Repko, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handpick

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handpick was in 1831

Rhymes for handpick

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Browse Nearby Words

hand phone
handpick
hand-plant
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Cite this Entry

“Handpick.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handpick. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

handpick

verb
hand·​pick ˈhan(d)-ˈpik How to pronounce handpick (audio)
: to select personally
a handpicked successor

More from Merriam-Webster on handpick

Nglish: Translation of handpick for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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