handbook

noun

hand·​book ˈhan(d)-ˌbu̇k How to pronounce handbook (audio)
Synonyms of handbooknext
1
a
: a book capable of being conveniently carried as a ready reference : manual
b
: a concise reference book covering a particular subject
2
a
: a bookmaker's book of bets
b
: a place where bookmaking is carried on

Synonyms of handbook

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Examples of handbook in a Sentence

a handbook of grammar
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The claims appear to be another old play from the anti-vaccine handbook. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 27 Aug. 2026 Off Ramp is many things—a useful compendium of research on polarization and political violence, a candid memoir of Cox’s uneven attempts at peacemaking, a practical handbook for Americans who want to rediscover how to live with one another. — Mckay Coppins, The Atlantic, 27 Aug. 2026 The Premier League’s 2026-27 handbook contains 29 rules about ‘Players’ Identification and Strip’, spanning topics like sponsorship, shirt numbers, captain’s armbands, and preventing kit clashes with opponents and match officials. — Cerys Jones, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 Baggier silhouettes, interesting textures, and a complete rewrite of the midsize fashion handbook we’ve traditionally been taught to follow. — Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 22 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handbook

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of handbook was before the 12th century

Rhymes for handbook

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Browse Nearby Words

handblown
handbook
handbooking
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Cite this Entry

“Handbook.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handbook. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

handbook

noun
hand·​book -ˌbu̇k How to pronounce handbook (audio)
: a small book of facts or useful information usually about a particular subject : manual

More from Merriam-Webster on handbook

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about handbook

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