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Definition of handbook

handbook

/ˈhænd.bʊk/
hand · book
Plural:handbooks
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handbook Lexical Profile

handbook Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A compact book containing basic information, instructions, or policies about a particular subject or organization.

Example

"Every new employee must read the corporate handbook to understand the company's rules and benefits."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for handbook

• Nearby Words

han river
hanakapiai
handbag
handbook
handcart
handcuff
handglass

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old English 'handbōc', though the modern term was popularized in the 19th century as a loan translation of the German 'Handbuch'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Handbook. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/handbook
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