sure-handed
Americanadjective
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using the hands with skill and confidence; dexterous.
-
done with skill and proficiency.
a sure-handed sketch of a proposed building.
-
displaying the skill and experience of an expert.
a sure-handed politician.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of sure-handed
First recorded in 1945–50
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.
This contemplates the Rams selecting USC receiver Makai Lemon, although it’s entirely possible that the sure-handed Trojans star will already be gone by the time the 13th pick rolls around.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026
His mother, Judy, patches up the damage, in a typically sure-handed performance by Jennifer Lopez, negotiating mixed emotions.
From New York Times • Dec. 5, 2024
The two-time national champion at Georgia was emerging as Herbert’s sure-handed short- and intermediate-route target, especially on third downs.
From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2024
Roberts said the Dodgers are preserving “optionality” for now, noting that Betts could “always kick out to the outfield” down the road — perhaps for a more sure-handed shortstop like Miguel Rojas come the playoffs.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2024
And till we can recover that, we shall never be able to have a Government firm-seated and sure-handed.
From Framley Parsonage by Trollope, Anthony
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
