hand down

British  

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)

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hand down Idioms  

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

2. 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 .

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Example Sentences

The Supreme Court could issue its ruling on the case as soon as Wednesday, when it is next expected to hand down opinions.

From The Wall Street Journal

It continued: “Independent grocers are proud economic drivers, creating local jobs and generating tax revenue, but they need certainty and common sense, not more costly red tape handed down by bureaucrats.”

From Salon

For much of 2025, the court was criticized for handing down temporary unsigned orders with little or no explanation.

From Los Angeles Times

Our Midwestern philosophy was handed down from our parents: Have faith in God and yourself; don’t worry about failure—it yields resilience—and remember that love guarantees you a permanent seat at the supper table.

From The Wall Street Journal

"It is not handed down or carried out until judicial proceedings in courts of all levels have been completed."

From BBC

Related Words

• pass on