What does handgrip mean?
Handgrip is a noun with several related meanings. At its most general, it means a grasp or hold made with the hand, as in describing how securely someone is holding a rope, tool, or piece of equipment. It can also refer to a handle or part shaped to be grasped. In athletic, fitness, and rehabilitation settings, a handgrip is commonly a compact device that provides resistance when squeezed, helping develop or restore strength in the hand, wrist, and forearm. The term is especially associated with exercises used to measure or train grip strength, although the word can sound more technical than the everyday terms “grip” and “grasp.” Although “handgrip” is transparent from its two elements, it describes more than the act of gripping: depending on context, it may designate the physical grasp itself, a graspable component, or equipment designed to make the hand stronger.
nounA hold or grasp made with the hand, or a handle or part shaped to be grasped. The word also denotes a small device or exercise used to strengthen the hand and forearm.
- A grasp or hold made with the hand.
- A handle or component designed to be held by the hand.
- A compact resistance device, or the exercise of squeezing one, used to develop strength in the hand, wrist, and forearm.
"Regular handgrip exercises helped restore strength in his injured hand."
"The climber checked her handgrip before attempting the next hold."
"Her therapist recommended a light handgrip exercise each morning."
The standard plural, especially when referring to several devices, grips, or exercises.
"The clinic supplied him with two adjustable handgrips for his rehabilitation exercises."
Turn a palm into a workout: a handgrip uses one simple squeeze to test, build, or restore hand strength.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does handgrip come from?
Handgrip is a compound formed in English from hand and grip. The first element descends from Old English hand, while grip entered Middle English during the medieval period, influenced by Old Norse gripr. Both elements have Germanic relatives, including the German word Griff for a grasp or handle.
How handgrip is actually used
The term is neutral but is most common in athletic, fitness, and rehabilitation contexts. For a device that strengthens the hand, “grip strengthener” and “hand gripper” are also frequently used.
Easily confused with handgrip
A handgrip can refer to a grasp, a handle, or an exercise, whereas a handgripper is specifically a resistance device for strengthening the hand.