Hand"y (?), a. [Compar. Handier (?); superl. Handiest.] [OE. hendi, AS. hendig (in comp.), fr. hand hand; akin to D. handig, Goth. handugs clever, wise.]
1.
Performed by the hand.
[Obs.]
To draw up and come to handy strokes.
Milton.
2.
Skillful in using the hand; dexterous; ready; adroit.
"Each is
handy in his way."
Dryden.
3.
Ready to the hand; near; also, suited to the use of the hand; convenient; valuable for reference or use; as, my tools are handy; a handy volume.
4. Naut.
Easily managed; obedient to the helm; -- said of a vessel.
© Webster 1913.