handle (oneself)

1. To act in a particular way or manner. You really handled yourself well in a very stressful situation. I'm proud of you. Derek has always handles himself with dignity and class—that's why he's so respected in this industry. I know I didn't handle myself well there—that guy was trying to antagonize me, and I just let him.

2. To defend oneself, as in a physical or verbal altercation. I don't need a man to defend my honor. I can handle myself in a barroom brawl, thank you very much. If you're going to coach in New York, you better be able to handle yourself in front of the media. The questions and criticisms are going to be unrelenting. I know the smaller players can handle themselves, but I want you bigger guys to back them up out there regardless.

handles

slang An accumulation of fat around one's midsection. A shortening of "love handles." I need to go back to the gym and start working out again if I want to lose these handles in time for the wedding. My high school reunion was weird—all the hot jocks are now balding and fat with handles. I did not see that coming! Ugh, I don't want to have handles, but I also hate doing ab and core exercises.

handle

1. n. a person’s name or nickname. (Western jargon and then citizens band radio.) My handle is Goober. You can call me Goob.

2. n. a way of dealing with something; a grasp of a problem. As soon as I get a handle on this Wilson matter, I’ll give you a buzz.

handle (oneself)

1. To conduct oneself in a specified manner: handled herself well in the interview.

2. To be able to defend oneself or fend for oneself: Don't worry about me. I can handle myself.

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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