handy

European (esp. German) slang for a handheld mobile telephone / Cell phone. They're called this either because a) they're handheld or b) they're very convenient (handy) to have around.

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.

To draw up and come to handy strokes. Milton.

2.

Skillful in using the hand; dexterous; ready; adroit.

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.