hand-to-hand

[ hand-tuh-hand ]
/ ˈhænd təˈhænd /

adjective

close to one's adversary; at close quarters: hand-to-hand combat.

Origin of hand-to-hand

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50

Definition for hand to hand (2 of 2)

Origin of hand

before 900; Middle English, Old English; cognate with Dutch, German Hand, Old Norse hǫnd, Gothic handus

SYNONYMS FOR hand

OTHER WORDS FROM hand

hand·like, adjective

British Dictionary definitions for hand to hand (1 of 3)

HAND
/ text messaging /

abbreviation for

have a nice day

British Dictionary definitions for hand to hand (2 of 3)

hand-to-hand

adjective, adverb

at close quarters they fought hand-to-hand

British Dictionary definitions for hand to hand (3 of 3)

hand
/ (hænd) /

noun

verb (tr)

Derived forms of hand

handless, adjective handlike, adjective

Word Origin for hand

Old English hand; related to Old Norse hönd, Gothic handus, Old High German hant

Medical definitions for hand to hand

hand
[ hănd ]

n.

The terminal part of the human arm located below the forearm, used for grasping and holding and consisting of the wrist, palm, four fingers, and an opposable thumb.
A homologous or similar part in other animals.

Idioms and Phrases with hand to hand (1 of 2)

hand to hand

1

In close combat; also, at close quarters. For example, If the enemy came any closer they would soon be fighting hand to hand. This expression, dating from about 1400, is usually restricted to military contexts but occasionally sees more general use.

2

from hand to hand. From one person to another; through a succession of persons. For example, The instructions were passed from hand to hand until everyone had seen them, or Over the generations the family albums went from hand to hand. [Mid-1500s]

Idioms and Phrases with hand to hand (2 of 2)

hand