adj
handsy
HAN-zee
Handsy (adj) means Inclined to touch other people inappropriately or without invitation. Example: “She complained that her coworker had gotten handsy at the party.”
adj
1
Inclined to touch other people inappropriately or without invitation.
"She complained that her coworker had gotten handsy at the party."
How to use handsy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTouching people in a way that is unwelcome or inappropriate, often sexually.
When to use it
Informal; commonly used to describe unwanted physical contact.
Common pairings
getting handsy
a handsy stranger
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Word forms
- Comparative
- handsier
- Superlative
- handsiest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She complained that her coworker had gotten _____ at the party.
Etymology
From "hand" + "-y," describing someone overly quick with their hands.
Frequently asked questions
What does “handsy” mean?
The word “handsy” means inclined to touch other people inappropriately or without invitation.
How do you pronounce “handsy”?
“Handsy” is pronounced HAN-zee (/ˈhæn(d)zi/ in IPA).
How do you use “handsy” in a sentence?
Here is “handsy” used in a sentence: “She complained that her coworker had gotten handsy at the party.”
What part of speech is “handsy”?
“Handsy” is an adjective.
