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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate

handout

HAN-dowt

Handout (noun) means a printed sheet of information given out, especially in a class or meeting. Example: “The teacher gave everyone a handout summarizing the lecture.”

noun
1
A printed sheet of information given out, especially in a class or meeting.
"The teacher gave everyone a handout summarizing the lecture."
2
Money or goods given to someone in need, often without them working for it.
"He refused to accept a handout and insisted on earning his keep."
"The charity distributes food handouts to homeless people."

How to use handout

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA free printed sheet of information, or free money/goods given to someone.

Common mistake

When used about aid to people, "handout" can carry a slightly negative or judgmental tone, unlike the neutral "aid" or "assistance."

Common pairings
course handout government handout a handout of cash

Word forms

handouts plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The teacher gave everyone a _____ summarizing the lecture.

Etymology

A noun formed from the phrasal verb "hand out."

release press release

Related words

Rhymes for handout

See all rhymes for handout →

Frequently asked questions

What does “handout” mean?

The word “handout” means a printed sheet of information given out, especially in a class or meeting. In plain terms, a free printed sheet of information, or free money/goods given to someone.

How do you pronounce “handout”?

“Handout” is pronounced HAN-dowt (/ˈhændˌaʊt/ in IPA).

How do you use “handout” in a sentence?

Here is “handout” used in a sentence: “The teacher gave everyone a handout summarizing the lecture.”

What part of speech is “handout”?

“Handout” is a noun.

How many meanings does “handout” have?

“Handout” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a printed sheet of information given out, especially in a class or meeting.

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