# handsome

/ˈhænsəm/ (US) · /hˈændsʌm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/handsome
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. attractive person

adjective · CEFR A2

good-looking or attractive, often used for men or for women with strong, classic features.

For teachers: physically attractive in a way that suggests health, strength, and dignity; traditionally applied to men, though it may describe women with impressive or stately features.

- He was a handsome man with dark hair and a kind smile.
- The portrait depicted a handsome gentleman in his late fifties, whose sharp features and steady gaze suggested a life of disciplined leadership.

### 2. large or generous

adjective · CEFR B2

large in amount or very generous.

For teachers: denoting a substantial or impressive quantity, often in the context of money, gifts, or rewards.

- The company offered him a handsome salary to join their team.
- After twenty years of loyal service, the retiring clerk was granted a handsome pension that far exceeded his expectations.

### 3. well-made or impressive

adjective · CEFR B1

looking expensive, high-quality, or impressive.

For teachers: characterised by impressive proportions, high-quality craftsmanship, or an aesthetically pleasing design.

- They lived in a handsome old house made of red brick.
- The library was housed in a handsome Victorian building, featuring high ceilings and ornate woodwork that had been meticulously restored.

## Examples

- He is a very handsome man.
- The actor was known for his handsome features and his ability to play charming heroes.
- The library was housed in a handsome Victorian building, featuring high ceilings and dark wood panelling that commanded immediate respect from visitors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.