Meaning

• Easy to use, useful.

  "Some people regard duct tape as a handy fix-all."

• Nearby, within reach.

  "I keep a first-aid kit handy in case of emergency."

• Of a person: dexterous, skilful.

  "She's very handy: she made all her own kitchen cupboards."

• Physically violent; tending to use one's fists.

• Of a freight ship: having a small cargo capacity (less than 40,000 DWT); belonging to the handysize class.