handhold

American  

[hand-hohld] / ˈhændˌhoʊld /

noun

1. a grip with the hand or hands.

2. something to grip or take hold of, as a support or handle.

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handhold British  

/ ˈhændˌhəʊld /

noun

1. an object, crevice, etc, that can be used as a grip or support, as in climbing

2. a grip or secure hold with the hand or hands

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Etymology

Origin of handhold

First recorded in 1635–45; hand + hold ¹

Example Sentences

With a cry he grabbed for a handhold, righting himself just in time.

From Literature

He set his hands on the wall, his fingers searching for handholds.

From Literature

There are grooves carved into her armor, like handholds on recreational rock walls.

From Literature

The same can't be said when it comes to handholds though.

From BBC

I tested every handhold for loose rocks and moved only in the thunderclaps of cannon fire as they echoed in the gorge.

From Literature

Related Words

• constraint
• grasp
• restraint