hand-to-hand

[hand-tuh-hand]

adjective

1. close to one's adversary; at close quarters.

   hand-to-hand combat.

hand-to-hand

adjective

1. at close quarters

   they fought hand-to-hand

Word History and Origins

Origin of hand-to-hand¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50

Idioms and Phrases

In close combat; also, at close quarters. For example, If the enemy came any closer they would soon be fighting hand to hand . This expression, dating from about 1400, is usually restricted to military contexts but occasionally sees more general use.

from hand to hand . From one person to another; through a succession of persons. For example, The instructions were passed from hand to hand until everyone had seen them , or Over the generations the family albums went from hand to hand . [Mid-1500s]