han·dle (hăńdl)

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[Middle English handelen, from Old English handlian.]

verb: -dled, -dling, -dles. 

transitive verb 

1. To touch, lift, or hold with the hands.
2. To operate with the hands; manipulate.
3. To deal with or have responsibility for; conduct: handles matters of corporate law.
4. To cope with or dispose of: handles problems efficiently.
5. 1. To direct, execute, or dispose of: handle an investment.
   2. To manage, administer to, or represent: handle a boxer.
6. To deal or trade in the purchase or sale of: a branch office that handles grain exports.

intransitive verb 

To act or function in a given way while in operation: a car that handles well in the snow.

noun 

1. A part that is designed to be held or operated with the hand.
2. An opportunity or a means for achieving a purpose.
3. Understanding or control: has a handle on the situation.
4. Slang A person's name.
5. Games The total amount of money bet on an event or over a set period of time.

idioms

get a handle on

To achieve an understanding of: I was finally able to get a handle on the true nature of the problem.

derivatives

hańdle·less

adjective

synonyms:

handle, manipulate, wield, ply² These verbs mean to use or operate with or as if with the hands. Handle applies widely and suggests competence: The lumberjack handled the ax expertly. The therapist handled every problem with sensitivity. Manipulate connotes skillful or artful management: The pilot confidently manipulated the controls in the cockpit. When manipulate refers to people or personal affairs, it often implies deviousness or fraud in gaining an end: I realized I'd been manipulated into helping them. Wield implies freedom, skill, ease, and effectiveness in handling physical or figurative implements: Ready to make kindling, she wielded a hatchet. The mayor's speechwriter wields a persuasive pen. It also connotes effectiveness in the exercise of intangibles such as authority or influence: The dictator wielded enormous power. Ply suggests industry and persistence: The hungry child was plying his knife and fork with gusto. The term also applies to the regular and diligent engagement in a task or pursuit: She plies the banker's trade with great success.

See also: touch

See also: treat