hand over fist
Quickly or in great quantity, especially in reference to earning money.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“That new shop is making money hand over fist.”
“The successful artist sells his colorful paintings hand over fist at the local market.”
“Since the product went viral on social media, the company has been selling units hand over fist.”
“The popular bakery was losing money hand over fist until the owner decided to change the menu and reduce the high monthly rent.”
“During the holiday season, the toy store usually gains customers hand over fist because it is the only shop in town with the latest games.”
“The entrepreneur expanded his empire rapidly, as his innovative software solutions generated revenue hand over fist throughout the fiscal year.”
Derived from the earlier expression *hand over hand*, the phrase originated as a nautical description for the rapid process of climbing or hauling on a rope. The motion required one hand to be placed quickly above the other in continuous succession, facilitating a pace that was considered notably efficient. By the 18th century, the terminology had transitioned from the rigging of a ship to the steady accumulation of profit.
- 01
back of one's hand
A display of disrespect or scorn.
- 02
bear a hand
To make haste; to help quickly.
- 03
big hand
Synonym of minute hand (on a clock face).
- 04
bite someone's hand off
To enthusiastically accept an offer.
- 05
bite the hand that feeds one
To cause harm to a benefactor (especially one that one is dependent on, thus with the idea that this behaviour is self-damaging).
- 06
cap in hand
In a humble and respectful manner.
- 07
cold hand
Used in reference to a player who fails to make successful shots in a game.
- 08
deal a bad hand
To assign unfavorable circumstances in life to someone.
Last updated August 10, 2026