the end part of a person's arm beyond the wrist, including the palm, fingers, and thumb, a pointer on a clock or watch indicating the passing of units of time, a round of applause

at hand, on hand, wash one's hands of something

Formal and Informal Expressions of hands

In different contexts, you can replace 'hands' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'appendages' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'paws, mitts, claws' is a commonplace synonym.

hands: Explore its Definition & Usage

hands Definition

1the end part of a person's arm beyond the wrist, including the palm, fingers, and thumb
2a pointer on a clock or watch indicating the passing of units of time
3a round of applause

Using hands: Examples

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

Example
She held the baby in her hands.
Example
The clock's hands showed it was already midnight.
Example
The audience gave him a round of hands.

hands Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hands

paws
mitts
claws

Phrases with hands

at hand
nearby or readily available
Example
I always keep a first-aid kit at hand in case of emergencies.
on hand
available for use or assistance
Example
We have extra chairs on hand in case more guests arrive.
wash one's hands of something
to refuse to be involved with something any longer
Example
After the scandal, he decided to wash his hands of politics.

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Summary: hands in Brief

The term 'hands' [hændz] refers to the end part of a person's arm beyond the wrist, including the palm, fingers, and thumb. It also denotes a pointer on a clock or watch indicating the passing of units of time, and a round of applause. Phrases like 'at hand' and 'on hand' indicate availability, while 'wash one's hands of something' means to refuse involvement.