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right-hander
/ˈraɪtˌhændər/
a right-handed person
She is a right-hander, so she writes with her right hand.
This means she uses her right hand for tasks like writing.
neutral
a person who uses their right hand as the dominant hand
Most tools are designed for right-handers.
This highlights how common items favor right-handed users.
The baseball player is a right-hander, so he throws with his right arm.
This describes his throwing hand in sports.
Often used in contexts like sports, ergonomics, or tool design to specify handedness.
Collocations
natural right-handera person who has always used their right hand without trainingswitch-handera person who can use both hands equally well
Synonyms
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'right-hand man'
'Right-hander' refers to handedness, while 'right-hand man' means a trusted assistant or deputy.
Gold Rule
Handedness terminology
Use 'right-hander' or 'left-hander' for individuals, and 'right-handed' or 'left-handed' as adjectives (e.g., 'a right-handed tool').
Word Origin
Compound of 'right' (meaning correct or dominant side) + 'hander' (from 'hand' + '-er' suffix indicating a person associated with the action). The term reflects the dominance of the right hand in human populations, historically linked to cultural and biological factors.
Usage Notes
The term is straightforward and commonly used in everyday language, sports commentary, and ergonomic discussions. Avoid using it as a substitute for 'right-handed' in formal writing, as 'right-hander' is more colloquial.
Word Breakdown
right
the dominant or correct side
roothand
the appendage used for grasping
root-er
suffix indicating a person associated with the action
suffixEnglish Dictionary