What does handsome mean?
Handsome is an adjective meaning attractive in appearance, especially in a traditionally masculine style. It commonly describes a man, a face, or another feature judged pleasing and well-proportioned, but contemporary usage increasingly extends the word to people of any gender. In literary and formal contexts, handsome can also describe generosity or nobility, as in “a handsome gesture,” or an impressive amount, as in “a handsome sum of money.” The word is useful because it combines aesthetic approval with a degree of traditional masculinity that distinguishes it from the more neutral “attractive.” Its history also reveals how meanings can shift: an older sense connected the word with being easy to handle, suitable, or skillful before its modern emphasis on pleasing appearance developed.
adjectivePhysically attractive, especially in a conventionally masculine way; pleasing or impressive in appearance. In formal or literary contexts, it can also mean generous, magnanimous, or ample, as in a handsome reward.
- Physically attractive, especially in a conventionally masculine way
- Generous, magnanimous, or noble, especially in describing an action or quality
- Ample, impressive, or generous in amount
"He looked handsome in a dark suit."
"He looked handsome in a dark suit."
"The volunteers were rewarded with a handsome sum for their efforts."
Before it described an attractive face, handsome meant easy to handle, suitable, or skillful.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of handsome
Handsome developed in Middle English from hand and a suffix associated with qualities such as being easy to handle or suitable. Its early senses referred to being skillful, convenient, or appropriate, rather than to physical beauty. During the later medieval and early modern periods, the word came to mean pleasing in appearance and also extended to generous or admirable actions and qualities.
Related word forms
How handsome is actually used
The word has traditionally been used chiefly for men and masculine-presenting people, although it is increasingly used more broadly. Its older formal senses suggesting generosity, skill, or nobility may sound literary or traditional in modern English.
Easily confused with handsome
Handsome describes pleasing or impressive appearance, whereas handy means useful, skillful, or convenient to use.