handle etymology

Etymology of "Handle"

The word "handle" originates from the Middle English word "handelen", meaning "to touch, manipulate, or manage". This word, in turn, is derived from the Old English word "handlian", which also means "to handle, touch, or seize".

Meaning of "Handle"

The primary meaning of "handle" is the physical part of an object that is designed to be gripped or held by the hand for manipulation. A handle can be attached to a wide range of objects, such as tools, containers, doors, weapons, and clothing.

In an extended sense, "handle" can also refer to:

• Control or management: Having or exercising control over something.
• Way of dealing with something: A particular approach or strategy for dealing with a situation or person.
• Device for grasping: Any device or mechanism used for gripping or holding objects.
• Grips of a weapon: The part of a weapon that is held for control and operation.
• Antenna of a radio receiver: The part of a radio receiver that intercepts radio waves.

Origin of "Handle"

The word "handle" has been in use in the English language since before the 12th century. It is believed to have been derived from the Proto-Germanic word handus, meaning "hand". The word has cognates in many other Germanic languages, such as Dutch "handel", German "Hand", and Swedish "handtag".

handle relate terms

• fond

  Etymology The word fond has origins in several languages Old French font meanin

• hand

  Etymology The word hand comes from the Old English word hand which is itself derive

• spindle

  Etymology The word spindle comes from the Old English word spindel which in turn der

• thimble

  Etymology The word thimble comes from the Old English word thȳmel which means thum

• manhandle

  Etymology The term manhandle is derived from two words Man Referring to a person t

• halberd

  Etymology The word halberd is derived from two Old High German words halp meanin

• broomstick

  Etymology of Broomstick The word broomstick is derived from two Old English words

• haft

• hilt

  Etymology Old English hilte from Proto West Germanic hiltiz from Proto Germanic hiltiz