upper hand

noun

Synonyms of upper handnext
: mastery, advantage, control
was determined not to let the opposition get the upper hand

Synonyms of upper hand

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Examples of upper hand in a Sentence

finally gained the upper hand in the argument
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 first one will give one team an upper hand, but obviously can’t dictate the entire series. — David Troy Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2026 Does that give an upper hand to British Hamnet star Joe Alwyn? — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 14 May 2026 But Ukraine looks more and more likely to be entering the next round of negotiations with a strong upper hand. — Elizabeth Shackelford, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026 Pollsters say that trend means the GOP could maintain a slight upper hand in state capitals heading into the fall. — Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for upper hand

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upper hand was in the 15th century

Rhymes for upper hand

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Browse Nearby Words

Upper German
upper hand
upper house
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Cite this Entry

“Upper hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upper%20hand. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

upper hand

noun
: the position of being ahead or in control

More from Merriam-Webster on upper hand

Nglish: Translation of upper hand for Spanish Speakers

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