an amount of something that can be held in one hand, a small number of people or things

a handful of something, be a handful, have one's hands full

Formal and Informal Expressions of handful

In different contexts, you can replace 'handful' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'small number' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'few, couple' is a commonplace synonym.

handful: Explore its Definition & Usage

handful Definition

1an amount of something that can be held in one hand
2a small number of people or things

Using handful: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "handful" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She grabbed a handful of nuts from the bowl.
Example
The teacher had a handful of students who needed extra help.
Example
He's only met a handful of celebrities in his career.

handful Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for handful

Antonyms for handful

Phrases with handful

a handful of something
a small amount of something
Example
I only need a handful of flour for this recipe.
be a handful
be difficult to manage or control
Example
The toddler is a handful, always running around and getting into things.
have one's hands full
be very busy or have a lot of work to do
Example
I can't talk right now, I have my hands full with this project.

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Summary: handful in Brief

The term 'handful' [ˈhændfʊl] refers to an amount of something that can be held in one hand, or a small number of people or things. It is often used in phrases like 'a handful of something,' as in 'She grabbed a handful of nuts from the bowl,' and idioms like 'be a handful,' meaning difficult to manage or control.