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

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 notes

In 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

Word forms

handsier comparative, handsiest superlative

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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.