overhand

[ oh-ver-hand ]

adjective

1. thrown or performed with the hand raised over the shoulder; overarm:

   overhand stroke.

2. with the hand and part or all of the arm raised above the shoulder:

   to pitch overhand.

3. (in sewing and embroidery) with close, shallow stitches over two edges.

adverb

1. with the hand over the object:

   to grasp one's fork overhand.

noun

1. an overhand stroke, throw, or delivery.

verb (used with object)

1. to sew overhand.

overhand

/ ˈəʊvəˌhænd /

adjective

1. thrown or performed with the hand raised above the shoulder
2. sewn with thread passing over two edges in one direction

adverb

1. with the hand above the shoulder; overarm
2. with shallow stitches passing over two edges

verb

1. to sew (two edges) overhand

Word History and Origins

Origin of overhand¹

First recorded in 1860–65; over- + hand

Example Sentences

If the weight is heavy for you, hold it with both hands, using an overhand grip with the right.

From Outside Online

Throwing himself forward, headed downstream, Tad struck out with long, overhand strokes for the Chinaman.

From Project Gutenberg

But even as he drew back his arms, Bunny whirled and made an overhand pass to his captain.

From Project Gutenberg

The overhand stitch is used as an ornamental stitch for joining selvages and in hemming.

From Project Gutenberg

The pieces for an overhand seam should be pinned carefully, placing the pins at right angles to the edge.

From Project Gutenberg

Fold as in an ordinary hem, then fold the hem back on the right side and overhand the edge formed, taking fine stitches.

From Project Gutenberg