bow hand

American  

[boh] / boʊ /

noun

1. Archery. the hand that holds the bow, the left hand for right-handed people.

2. Music. the hand that draws the bow.

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Etymology

Origin of bow hand

First recorded in 1580–90

Example Sentences

The right hand, the bow hand, is the direct opposite—it is the painter hand, the artist hand, its phrasing outlines the pictures of music; its nuances fill them with beauty of color.

From Violin Mastery Talks with Master Violinists and Teachers by Martens, Frederick Herman

The strain of drawing a heavy bow is apt to pull the bow hand out of the line of sight.

From Entertainments for Home, Church and School by Seeger, Frederica

You are on the bow hand still, smith.

From The Fair Maid of Perth Or, St. Valentine's Day by Scott, Walter, Sir

Abe's desire to make a river trip was at last satisfied, and he accompanied the proprietor's son, serving as "bow hand."

From Abraham Lincoln, Volume 1 (of 2) The True Story Of A Great Life by Herndon, William H.

Oh…Wit, thou art now on the bow hand, And blindly in thine own opinion dost stand.

From Sir Thomas More by Shakespeare (spurious and doubtful works)