ENGLISH
REFERENCE

handsome

adj.
A2 Elementary US //ˈhænsəm// UK //hˈændsʌm// hand·some Archaic

adj. good-looking or attractive. You usually use this to describe a man with a strong, pleasing face, but it can also describe a woman with a healthy, impressive look.

adj. possessing a pleasing, impressive, or dignified appearance. While traditionally applied to men, it can describe women with strong features or objects that are substantial and well-made.


SIMPLE

He is a very handsome man.

CONTEXTUAL

The actor was known for his handsome features and his ability to play charming heroes.

COMPLEX

The library was housed in a handsome Victorian building, featuring high ceilings and dark wood panelling that commanded immediate respect from visitors.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English handsum, hondsom, equivalent to hand + -some. Compare Dutch handzaam, German Low German handsaam. The original sense was ‘easy to handle or use’, hence ‘suitable’ and ‘apt, clever’ (mid 16th century), giving rise to the current appreciatory senses (late 16th century).

Usage

Commonly used to describe men; when applied to women, it suggests a stately or strong beauty rather than a delicate one.

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