handheld

adjective

hand·​held ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
-ˈheld
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be operated while being held in the hand
handheld computers
handheld
ˈhan(d)-ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
noun

Examples of handheld 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.
Remember to wear certified eclipse glasses or use a handheld solar viewer to protect your vision any time the sun’s light is on display before, during or after the eclipse, and follow these safety tips to protect your vision. — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 12 Aug. 2026 It's been months since the FCC took the unprecedented step of adding all foreign drones and handheld DJI camera gear to its Covered List, a registry of equipment that's not allowed to be sold in the US. — Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026 For those who plan to watch either the total or partial eclipse, special equipment such as eclipse glasses or handheld viewers with special filters will be necessary to protect one's eyes. — Chandelis Duster, NPR, 8 Aug. 2026 While most handheld fans have analog controls, the ChillPill has a sleek touchscreen for one-touch adjustments. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handheld

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handheld was in 1891

Rhymes for handheld

See All Rhymes for handheld

Browse Nearby Words

handhabend
handheld
handhold
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handheld.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handheld. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

handheld

adjective
hand·​held -ˌheld How to pronounce handheld (audio)
: held in the hand
especially : designed to be used while being held in the hand
a handheld computer
handheld noun

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Nglish: Translation of handheld for Spanish Speakers

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