in hand

phrase

Synonyms of in handnext
1
: in one's possession or control
had matters well in hand
with money in hand
2
: in preparation
a new play in hand
3
: under consideration
took the matter in hand

Examples of in hand 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.
Playing the American League’s best team, the Padres had the final two games of the series in hand before the practically impermeable back end of their bullpen blew late leads. — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 With the brush in hand, make circular motions on the surfaces, breaking up any chalky residues and removing bacteria. — Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 31 Aug. 2026 With the learner's permit in hand, people then can enroll in behind-the-wheel training, which is handled by these training schools. — Sophie Carson, jsonline.com, 31 Aug. 2026 Jamarquis Reid, a 10th-grade wide receiver with multiple Division 1 offers in hand, had just made a logo for a football card business. — Austin Horn august 29, Miami Herald, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in hand

Word History

First Known Use

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

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

Rhymes for in hand

See All Rhymes for in hand

Browse Nearby Words

in half
in hand
inharmonic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20hand. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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