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 wide receiver leaped from the 2-yard line, made a one-handed grab around an Eagles defender and landed in the end zone. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026 The setup is pitched (with an absolutely straight face) as a way to type one-handed or even with a single finger. — New Atlas, 11 Oct. 2026 So how did the primordial soup that formed life on Earth, which presumably had this exact balanced chemistry, end up one-handed? — Mallory Green, The Conversation, 8 Oct. 2026 Thiero’s towering, one-handed dunk over two Golden State defenders provided a highlight in the Lakers’ otherwise forgettable 124-98 preseason loss to the Warriors at Chase Center on Tuesday. — Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 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 21 Oct. 2026.

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