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handlebar

American  
[han-dl-bahr] / ˈhæn dlˌbɑr /

noun

  1. Usually handlebars.

    1. the curved steering bar of a bicycle, motorcycle, etc., placed in front of the rider and gripped by the hands.

    2. handlebar moustache.

  2. a bar or rod, usually of metal and having a handle at one end, used for handling, guiding, or maneuvering some object.


Etymology

Origin of handlebar

First recorded in 1885–90; handle + bar 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.

Gareth Williams, 33, described how toddler Indie loved "scooting around the house" on her little bike, so decided to buy a child's seat and handlebar to attach to his own bicycle.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

In the image he has dark skin, receding curly hair, a thick handlebar mustache, deep-set eyes and a dark suit emblazoned with a crest.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Wearing cowboy boots and a handlebar mustache, he had a Texas twang and a quiet, calm presence that disarmed suspects, eliciting confessions.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

At 82, the former electrician with his legendary handlebar moustache is still receiving visitors in an office at the heart of the former Gdansk shipyards.

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

He straps the helmet on, hangs the bookstore bag from the handlebar, climbs on the rear pegs, and grips my shoulders.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera