Word
handbook
Phoneticshand·book, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈhændˌbʊk/
UK/hˈændbʊk/
Definitions
01reference book
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun
n. a book that gives you facts or instructions about a subject or how to do something.
n. a reference book providing concise information or instructions on a specific subject, often designed for quick consultation.
“The employee handbook explains the company rules about holidays and sick leave.”
“The technical handbook provides comprehensive diagrams and troubleshooting steps for maintaining the industrial cooling system.”
Usage
Often used with a modifying noun like 'employee', 'student', or 'technical'.
02illegal betting place
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Sports American English · Informal
n. a place where people can make illegal bets on things like horse races.
n. a location or establishment where illicit gambling or bookmaking takes place.
“The police closed down a small handbook operating in the back of the café.”
“During the mid-century era, local authorities often turned a blind eye to the handbooks operating in the city's industrial districts.”
Teaching tip
This sense is rare in modern English and mostly appears in historical crime fiction or older American contexts.
Synonyms
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/handbook