hand down

verb

1. to leave to a later period or generation; bequeath

2. to pass (an outgrown garment) on from one member of a family to a younger one

3. law to announce or deliver (a verdict)

Idioms and Phrases

Bequeath to one's heirs, as in The silver and jewels have been handed down from generation to generation in that family . [Late 1600s]

Make and pronounce an official decision, especially the verdict of a court. For example, The judge wasted no time in handing down a sentence of contempt of court . [First half of 1900s] Also see hand on ; hand over .

Related Words

• pass on