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.
The drones were of the handheld quadcopter variety, let loose directly over the camp, at times during prayer song ceremonies. — Ryan Devereaux, ProPublica, 10 Oct. 2026 The often-handheld camerawork creates the sensation of watching old home videos, even if most of these encounters don’t seem worthy of documentation. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 9 Oct. 2026 Other key elements include roll-in showers with grab bars and handheld shower wands; raised toilet seats with grab bars; lowered light switches, thermostats, and mirrors; and wheelchair-accessible bathroom sinks. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026 In her video, De Matteo was jokingly using one of the sleek, handheld gadgets (currently sold only in Europe) as a mic. — Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 8 Oct. 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 14 Oct. 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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