handles

Noun

handle (plural handles)

1. The part of an object which is (designed to be) held in the hand when used or moved.
   • Once his fingers strayed to the handle of his hunting-knife, and I should have interfered had I not been conscious that Wickliffe was on his guard.1854, John Hovey Robinson, Silver-knife: or, The hunters of the Rocky Mountains, page 133
2. An instrument for effecting a purpose (either literally or figuratively); a tool, or an opportunity or pretext.
   • They overturned him to all his interests by the sure but fatal handle of his own good nature.1692–1717, Robert South, Twelve Sermons Preached upon Several Occasions, volume (please specify |volume=I to VI), London
3. The gross amount of wagering within a given period of time or for a given event at one of more establishments.
   • The daily handle of a Las Vegas casino is typically millions of dollars.
4. The tactile qualities of a fabric, e.g., softness, firmness, elasticity, fineness, resilience, and other qualities perceived by touch.
5. (slang) A name or nickname, especially as an identifier over the radio or Internet.
   • We sat together at the restaurant and asked him about his handle (CB name).1997, Jack Canfield, Hanoch McCarty, A 4th course of chicken soup for the soul, →ISBN, page 312
6. (slang) A title attached to one's name, such as Doctor or Colonel.
   • The successful businessman was knighted and acquired a handle to his name.

See all 27 meanings of handle