manhandle

American  

[man-han-dl, man-han-dl] / ˈmænˌhæn dl, mænˈhæn dl /

verb (used with object)

manhandled, manhandling

1. to handle roughly.

2. to move by human strength, without the use of mechanical appliances.

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manhandle British  

/ ˌmænˈhændəl, ˈmænˌhændəl /

verb

1. to handle or push (someone) about roughly

2. to move or do by manpower rather than by machinery

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Etymology

Origin of manhandle

1425–75; late Middle English. See man, handle

Explanation

When you manhandle something, you pick it up, push it, or pull it roughly. You might gasp watching movers manhandle your fragile furniture as they load it into a moving van. You can manhandle things, and you can also manhandle people, shoving or grabbing them. If security workers at the airport manhandle a little old lady, nearby passengers will probably speak up in her defense. This current meaning arose in the late nineteenth century — earlier, manhandle meant "attack an enemy," and before that, "wield a tool."

Example Sentences

The Huskies needed their wide receivers to manhandle Michigan’s defensive backs, and running back Dillon Johnson to deliver despite an array of injuries.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 8, 2024

It was now left to Ian to manhandle the larger section of the stone into the boot of the car.

From BBC • Oct. 5, 2022

I know Chase Young can manhandle a blocking sled.

From Washington Times • Sep. 27, 2021

The bell rang, Lynch reached out to shake Belair’s hand, and when Belair did, Lynch hit with a clothesline and a manhandle slam and pinned her, 1-2-3.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2021

“They’ll manhandle the rock off that loader, Doc, and then they’ll tie on a cable, try to use a motor to pull it out.”

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam

Related Words

• maltreat
• maul
• mistreat
• rough up