handshake
HAN-shayk
Handshake (noun) means the act of grasping and shaking someone's hand as a greeting or to seal an agreement. Example: “They sealed the deal with a firm handshake.”
noun
1
The act of grasping and shaking someone's hand as a greeting or to seal an agreement.
"They sealed the deal with a firm handshake."
"His handshake was so weak it barely registered."
2
In computing, an exchange of signals between devices when a connection is established.
"The connection failed during the initial handshake."
How to use handshake
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA greeting where two people grip and shake hands, or (in tech) devices confirming a connection.
Common pairings
firm handshake
shake hands
handshake protocol
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Word forms
- Plural
- handshakes
- Third person singular
- handshakes
- Past tense
- handshaked, handshook
Fill the gap
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They sealed the deal with a firm _____.
Etymology
From "hand" + "shake" — literally the shaking of hands.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for handshake
See all rhymes for handshake →Frequently asked questions
What does “handshake” mean?
The word “handshake” means the act of grasping and shaking someone's hand as a greeting or to seal an agreement. In plain terms, a greeting where two people grip and shake hands, or (in tech) devices confirming a connection.
How do you pronounce “handshake”?
“Handshake” is pronounced HAN-shayk (/ˈhæn(d)ˌʃeɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “handshake” in a sentence?
Here is “handshake” used in a sentence: “They sealed the deal with a firm handshake.”
What part of speech is “handshake”?
“Handshake” is a noun.
Is “handshake” a common word?
“Handshake” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “handshake” have?
“Handshake” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of grasping and shaking someone's hand as a greeting or to seal an agreement.
