Synonyms for

Handful

Verb / ˈhæˌndfʊl / Another word for handful — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

an amount of something that can be held in one hand

Synonyms & similar words

fistful smattering grip grasp clutch fistful smattering sprinkling scattering heap pile quantity assortment selection variety bunch batch load chunk lump mass collection

Synonyms by register

Formal

small quantity limited amount scant number

Informal

smattering pinch few couple

Literary

sprinkling scattering

Antonyms

multitude abundance plenty profusion plethora mass heap

Common collocations

  • a handful of
  • just a handful
  • only a handful
  • a small handful
  • a tiny handful
  • a generous handful

Word family

noun handful

Usage note

Primarily used to denote a small, unquantifiable amount. Can sometimes imply a manageable quantity, as in 'a handful of problems'.

Example sentences

  1. I found a handful of seashells on the beach.
  2. Can you give me a handful of berries?
  3. She grabbed a handful of dirt and threw it at the window.
  4. He had a handful of marbles in his pocket.
  5. The toddler grabbed a handful of sand and threw it in the air.

Quotes

  • 'A handful of men, inured to war, proceed to certain victory, while on the contrary, numerous armies of raw and undisciplined troops are but multitudes of men dragged to the slaughter.' - Vegetius
  • 'It is better to take what does not belong to you than to let it lie around neglected.' - Mark Twain
  • 'I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.' - William Ernest Henley, 'Invictus'

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