one-handed

adjective

one-hand·​ed ˈwən-ˈhan-dəd How to pronounce one-handed (audio)
1
: having or using only one hand
could beat him up one-handed
2
a
: designed for or requiring the use of only one hand
b
: effected by the use of only one hand

Examples of one-handed in a Sentence

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 Falcons’ star receiver nearly made a one-handed catch on a pass from Tua Tagovailoa that was low and behind him. — Daniel Flick, AJC.com, 26 Aug. 2026 No player with a one-handed backhand has reached a Grand Slam semifinal in 2026. — Amelie Claydon, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 The second was a one-handed snare in the corner of the end zone in the opening minutes of the third quarter to give Mandarin a double-digit lead in an eventual 38-21 win over Hollywood McArthur. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 22 Aug. 2026 The play of the day likely came on one-on-ones, with Allen making a one-handed catch to beat Delane despite close coverage. — Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for one-handed

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of one-handed was in the 15th century

Rhymes for one-handed

See All Rhymes for one-handed

Browse Nearby Words

oneg shabbat
one-handed
one-hit wonder
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“One-handed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-handed. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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