change hands

phrase

: to pass from the possession of one owner to that of another
The property has changes hands many times.

Examples of change hands 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.
Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters return for their third season together in Washington, but both coordinator positions have changed hands. — Jenny Catlin, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 As trillions of dollars change hands, inheritors won’t just take on their family fortunes—they’ll also have the chance to reshape how that wealth is invested, spent, and put to work. — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 3 Sep. 2026 Those elevated mortgage rates have weighed down the housing market, leading to fewer homes changing hands. — Samantha Delouya, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2026 Season 2 jumps forward nine years, to a presidential assassination, military coups and an unstable state that changes hands many times in the months that follow. — Ophélie Surcouf, Variety, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for change hands

Word History

First Known Use

1614, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of change hands was in 1614

Rhymes for change hands

See All Rhymes for change hands

Browse Nearby Words

change gear
change hands
change horses in midstream
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Change hands.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/change%20hands. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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