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Synonyms

handhold

American  
[hand-hohld] / ˈhændˌhoʊld /

noun

  1. a grip with the hand or hands.

  2. something to grip or take hold of, as a support or handle.


handhold British  
/ ˈhændˌhəʊld /

noun

  1. an object, crevice, etc, that can be used as a grip or support, as in climbing

  2. a grip or secure hold with the hand or hands

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of handhold

First recorded in 1635–45; hand + hold 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Every afternoon, somebody has to grab for a handhold because the boat gives a little sort of judder,” Hutchinson said.

From New York Times • Jun. 9, 2023

Three men were climbing the Gribin Ridge in Eryri, also known as Snowdonia, on Saturday, when the handhold collapsed.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2023

She started as a country singer, has found a handhold firmly in pop, but albums like "Reputation" have a more gritty and experimental feel.

From Salon • Dec. 16, 2022

What gives Mr. O’Rourke a handhold in the race is his prodigious fundraising.

From Washington Times • Jun. 4, 2019

He had left a rounded knob at one end for a handhold.

From "Son" by Lois Lowry

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