noun
handful
HAN-fuul
noun
1
The amount that fits in one hand, or a small number of something.
"She grabbed a handful of almonds on her way out."
"Only a handful of people showed up to the meeting."
2
Someone or something that is difficult to manage or control.
"Her toddler can be a real handful at bedtime."
How to Use Handful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small amount you can hold in one hand, or (informally) a person or task that is hard to manage.
Common pairings
a handful of people
a real handful
a handful of nuts
Word Forms
handfuls plural, handsful plural
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She grabbed a _____ of almonds on her way out.
Etymology
From Old English handfull, a compound of hand and full.