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.
So, a digital handbook may say a message requires human approval, but the system must be able to enforce it. — Dr. Timothy J. Giardino, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 The company also publishes a garden guide, a kids’ edition, and special handbooks on container gardens, vegetables, and herbs. — HubSpot, 1 Sep. 2026 The conference’s athletic trainers also meet annually each May to discuss the handbook and recommendations for both educational purposes and to check for updates, according to Naumovich. — Jenna Ebbers, Kansas City Star, 1 Sep. 2026 The same program also offers free handbooks in English and Spanish. — Pedro Moura, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 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 7 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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