HAND'LE, verb transitive [Latin manus.]

1. To touch; to feel with the hand; to use or hold with the hand.

The bodies we daily handle--hinder the approach of the part of our hands that press them.

2. To manage; to use; to wield.

That fellow handles a bow like a crow-keeper.

3. To make familiar by frequent touching.

The breeders in Flanders--handle their colts six months every year.

4. To treat; to discourse on; to discuss; to use or manage in writing or speaking. The author handled the subject with address. The speaker handled the arguments to the best advantage.

5. To use; to deal with; to practice.

They that handle the law knew me not. Jeremiah 2:8.

6. To treat; to use well or ill.

How wert thou handled?

7. To manage; to practice on; to transact with.

You shall see how I will handle her.

HAND'LE, noun [Latin ansa.]

1. That part of a vessel or instrument which is held in the hand when used, as the haft of a sword, the bail of a kettle, etc.

2. That of which use is made; the instrument of effecting a purpose.