right hand

¹

noun

1. the hand that is on the right side, or the side opposite that where the heart is.

2. the right side, as of a person, especially this side considered as the side of precedence or courtesy.

3. a position of honor or special trust.

4. an extremely efficient or reliable person or, sometimes, tool, especially a person considered as one's assistant.

right-hand

²

[rahyt-hand]

adjective

1. on the right.

2. of, for, or with the right hand.

3. most reliable, valuable, or useful, as a helper or assistant.

4. plain-laid.

5. Building Trades.,  Also

   1. (of a door) having the hinges on the right when seen from the exterior of the building, room, closet, etc., to which the doorway leads.

   2. (of a casement sash) having the hinges on the right when seen from inside the window.

right-hand

adjective

1. of, relating to, located on, or moving towards the right

   a right-hand bend

   this car has right-hand drive

2. for use by the right hand; right-handed

3. one's most valuable assistant or supporter

Word History and Origins

Origin of right hand¹

before 1000; Middle English; Old English

Origin of right hand²

adj. use of right hand

Example Sentences

Though Smith’s fractured right hand has healed, he is still in the process of rebuilding strength and stamina after missing the last few weeks.

From Los Angeles Times

The big question remains catcher Will Smith, who has been out since Sept. 9 with a right hand fracture.

From Los Angeles Times

He is now effectively the prime minister's right hand man.

From BBC

The suspect has tattoos on the right side of his face and his right hand, police said.

From Los Angeles Times

Before their 7-5, series-clinching win over the Giants, the Dodgers found out that catcher Will Smith is dealing with a hairline fracture in his right hand.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crucial 
• fundamental 
• imperative 
• important 
• indispensable 
• main 
• necessary 
• needed 
• vital