Synonyms for handle

noun

A holder
handhold, hilt, ear, grasp, tiller, crank, knocker, haft, bail, knob, stem, grip, arm; see also holder 1.
*A title
nickname, designation, moniker*; see name 1, title 3.

fly off the handle*

become angry, lose one's temper, blow off steam*; see rage 1.

verb

To deal in
retail, market, offer for sale; see sell 1.
To touch
finger, check, examine; see feel 2, touch 1.
To direct
supervise, control, manage; see advise 1, command 2.
To operate
manipulate, work, wield, ply; see also manage 1.

handle implies the possession of sufficient (or a specified degree of) skill in managing or operating with or as with the hands to handle a tool or a problem; manipulate suggests skill, dexterity, or craftiness in handling to manipulate a machine or an account; wield implies skill and control in handling effectively to wield an ax, to wield influence; ply suggests great diligence in operating to ply an oar, to ply one's trade

See handle in American Heritage Dictionary 4 Synonyms

handle manipulate wield ply ²

These verbs mean to use or operate with or as if with the hands. Handle applies widely and suggests competence: The lumberjack handled the ax expertly. The therapist handled every problem with sensitivity.
Manipulate connotes skillful or artful management: The pilot confidently manipulated the controls in the cockpit.
When manipulate refers to people or personal affairs, it often implies deviousness or fraud in gaining an end: I realized I'd been manipulated into helping them.
Wield implies freedom, skill, ease, and effectiveness in handling physical or figurative implements: Ready to make kindling, she wielded a hatchet. The mayor's speechwriter wields a persuasive pen.
It also connotes effectiveness in the exercise of intangibles such as authority or influence: The dictator wielded enormous power.
Ply suggests industry and persistence: The hungry child was plying his knife and fork with gusto.
The term also applies to the regular and diligent engagement in a task or pursuit: She plies the banker's trade with great success.

Synonyms for handle

fly off the handle*

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