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handlebar

American  
[han-dl-bahr] / ˈhæn dlˌbɑr /

noun

  • handlebars
    plural
  1. Usually handlebars.

    1. the curved steering bar of a bicycle, motorcycle, etc., placed in front of the rider and gripped by the hands.

    2. handlebar moustache.

  2. a bar or rod, usually of metal and having a handle at one end, used for handling, guiding, or maneuvering some object.


Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

Etymology

Origin of handlebar

First recorded in 1885–90; handle + bar 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

A simple change in handlebar grip can interrupt sensor contact or blood flow.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 7, 2026

At 82, the former electrician with his legendary handlebar moustache is still receiving visitors in an office at the heart of the former Gdansk shipyards.

From Barron's Feb. 23, 2026

Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was one of the US's most famous wrestling stars, known for his flowing blond hair and handlebar moustache.

From BBC Dec. 31, 2025

Chris Pratt in a handlebar mustache for Pringles.

From Los Angeles Times Feb. 12, 2024

He straps the helmet on, hangs the bookstore bag from the handlebar, climbs on the rear pegs, and grips my shoulders.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera

The rider would then be alerted via either visual signals on the frame, vibrations in the handlebars or through technology inside their helmet.

From Barron's Jun. 28, 2026

At Kampala’s Mirembe food market, where stalls overflow with watermelons and green bananas, fish vendor Medie Waiswa uses disinfectant every morning to clean his countertop, storage cabinet, chairs and motorcycle handlebars.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 26, 2026

“Fingers bruised from lifting boxes on the warehouse floor, palms calloused from delivery bike handlebars, knuckles scarred with kitchen burns: These are not hands that have been allowed to hold power,” he said.

From Salon Nov. 6, 2025

Once on campus, Mara found himself on the receiving end of endless stares, particularly when he zipped around on a scooter that required him to slump over to reach the handlebars.

From Los Angeles Times Jan. 12, 2025

I carry my bike down the stairs by its handlebars and seat.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera

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