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Definition of handholding

handholding

/ˈhændˌhoʊldɪŋ/
hand · hold · ing
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handholding Lexical Profile

handholding Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Attentive, step-by-step guidance, reassurance, or close supervision given to someone who is inexperienced or anxious, sometimes perceived as excessive or patronizing.

Example

"The new software is intuitive enough that most employees can learn to use it without much handholding."

2

The physical act of clasping another person's hand as a gesture of affection, comfort, or support.

Example

"Public displays of affection such as hugging and handholding were uncommon in the formal ceremony."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for handholding

• Nearby Words

handgun
handheld
handhold
handholding
handicap
handicapped
handicraft

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Handholding. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/handholding
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