- 1[transitive] to deal with a situation, a person, an area of work, or a strong emotion handle something A new man was appointed to handle the crisis. She's very good at handling her patients. The sale was handled by Adams Commercial. We can handle up to 500 calls an hour at our new offices. We all have to learn to handle stress. This matter has been handled very badly. (informal) “Any problems?” “Nothing I can't handle.” (informal) I have to go. I can't handle it anymore (= deal with a difficult situation). handle yourself (informal) You have to know how to handle yourself in this business (= know the right way to behave).
touch with hands - 2[transitive] handle something to touch, hold, or move something with your hands Our cat hates being handled. The label on the box said: “Fragile. Handle with care.”
- 3[transitive] handle something to control a vehicle, an animal, a tool, etc. I wasn't sure if I could handle such a powerful car. She's a difficult horse to handle.
- 4[intransitive] handle well/badly to be easy/difficult to drive or control The car handles well in any weather. buy/sell
- 5[transitive] handle something to buy or sell something synonym deal in something They were arrested for handling stolen goods.
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NAmE//ˈhændl//
Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they handle he / she / it handles
past simple handled
-ing form handling
Check pronunciation: handle