Handful

A handful is a small amount of something that can be held in one hand. This can refer to a physical quantity of items, such as sand or candies, or a figurative amount, like a small number of people or tasks. It implies a limited quantity, often implying something is manageable or, conversely, not very many. The term can also metaphorically describe someone or something difficult to control or manage, like 'a handful' of a child. It suggests the subject's challenging nature.

Handful meaning with examples

• She scooped up a handful of sand from the beach and let it trickle through her fingers, watching the grains reflect the sunlight. The breeze made it slightly harder to measure what was there, yet the sand held it's own. Even with a handful, the sun and sand both worked on the senses. Her mind felt like the vast ocean, expansive and wild with thought.
• The baker added a handful of chocolate chips to the cookie dough, ensuring a rich and decadent treat for everyone. A small handful of the chips were a real treat and the smell of the cookies baking was something to relish. The baker placed the cookies in the oven, ready for consumption. She would have plenty to share with her friends, since baking makes her a better person.
• There was only a handful of attendees at the early morning meeting, making for a more intimate discussion. The attendance had been lower than expected yet the meeting was all the more engaging. Those who came made for a very enjoyable event and the discussion really got going. The group had time for a bit of coffee and that made a big difference.
• The new puppy was a handful, constantly chewing on furniture and demanding attention at all hours. With a little work the dog would be fine. The dog ran around the apartment, finding mischief around every turn. It would take a lot of work to house train and discipline this animal, who was full of energy.