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
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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 records don't establish whether parents were told about the facilitator handbook's guidance on gender identity, pronouns and nonbinary participants. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 The standard fix fails because handbooks rot the day they are written. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Thoughtful extras include a handy waterproof bag for wet swimwear and the gift of a black handbook with the owner’s favorite island haunts. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 In Arkansas, private schools participating in the voucher-like program have to be accredited or working toward it, which often requires creating curriculum and school handbooks. — Jodi S. Cohen, ProPublica, 5 Oct. 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 20 Oct. 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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