handlebar

American  

[han-dl-bahr] / ˈhæn dlˌbɑr /

noun

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.

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Etymology

Origin of handlebar

First recorded in 1885–90; handle + bar ¹

Example Sentences

In the image he has dark skin, receding curly hair, a thick handlebar mustache, deep-set eyes and a dark suit emblazoned with a crest.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Wearing cowboy boots and a handlebar mustache, he had a Texas twang and a quiet, calm presence that disarmed suspects, eliciting confessions.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 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

As Angus spoke, Ernie Haecker, a longtime train lover, nodded in understanding, grinning beneath a handlebar mustache.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

He twisted one end of his handlebar mustache with patient amusement as the crowd quieted.

From "The Underground Railroad: A Novel" by Colson Whitehead