What does "handing" mean?

1. (giving something by hand) giving something to someone by holding it in your hand and passing it to them. 2. (the act of passing) the physical act of passing an object to another person.

How do you use "handing"?

Often used with 'out' or 'over' to specify the type of delivery.

handing

v. · n.

US //ˈhændɪŋ// UK //hˈændɪŋ// hand·ing

1 giving something by hand (v.)
A2 Elementary

giving something to someone by holding it in your hand and passing it to them.

the act of passing or delivering something to another person using the hands. Transitive; requires a direct object.

Example

She was handing out flyers to everyone who walked past the shop.

Example

The witness was seen handing a sealed envelope to the investigator just moments before the hearing commenced.

Usage

Often used with 'out' or 'over' to specify the type of delivery.
- taking
- receiving
2 the act of passing (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the physical act of passing an object to another person.

the specific instance or method of transferring an object from one person to another.

Example

The careful handing of the fragile vase prevented it from breaking.

Example

The protocol required the formal handing of the keys to the new governor during the inauguration ceremony.
- transfer
- delivery

Last updated June 20, 2026