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manhandle

verb

/ˈmænˌhæn dl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of manhandle

To handle or move a person or an object roughly, forcibly, or without proper care.
"The police had to manhandle the protester to get him into the squad car."

Detailed meaning of manhandle

When someone manhandles something or someone, they use physical force or strength in a rough or uncontrolled manner, often resulting in discomfort, harm, or damage. Manhandling can involve gripping, pushing, pulling, or lifting someone or something in a harsh or aggressive manner, disregarding their well-being or the fragility of the object. This action can be intentional or unintentional, but it typically implies a lack of consideration, gentleness, or respect in the handling process. Manhandling can occur in various situations, such as during physical altercations, while transporting heavy objects, or in cases of improper treatment or abuse. It is generally seen as an undesirable and potentially harmful behavior, as it disregards the dignity and safety of individuals or the integrity of objects.

Example sentences containing manhandle

1. Be careful not to manhandle the antique vase, as it's very delicate.
2. The security guards will manhandle anyone who tries to rush the stage.
3. It is never okay to manhandle a person in anger or frustration.
4. If you manhandle the electronics, they may end up breaking.
5. The movers seemed to manhandle my furniture, leaving it scratched and dented.
6. In the movie, the hero manages to escape even though the villains try to manhandle him.

History and etymology of manhandle

The verb 'manhandle' has a fascinating etymology that sheds light on its origins. The term can be divided into two parts: 'man' and 'handle.' The word 'man' in this context does not refer to gender but rather to a person or human being, and it has been used in this general sense since Old English. The term 'handle' is derived from the Old English word 'handlian,' which means to touch or handle with the hands. When these two elements are combined, 'manhandle' essentially means to handle or manipulate a person or an object roughly, forcibly, or without proper care. The word has evolved over time to describe actions that are physically forceful or rough in nature, reflecting its historical roots in manual labor and physical exertion.

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Further usage examples of manhandle

1. When he tried to manhandle the old manuscript, the librarian sternly told him to be gentle.
2. In rugby, players often manhandle each other in an attempt to gain possession of the ball.
3. The toddler tried to manhandle the kitten, not realizing that he was being too rough.
4. The shop owner had to manhandle the large box through the narrow door.
5. At the museum, the staff is trained to never manhandle the exhibits.
6. The coach told his players not to manhandle their opponents, but to play fair.
7. The mechanic was able to manhandle the engine into place singlehandedly.
8. Do not manhandle the controls; a gentle touch is all that is needed.
9. The workers manhandle heavy crates onto the truck with grunts and effort.
10. It's essential not to manhandle delicate glassware when cleaning it.
11. The security personnel had to manhandle the unruly protester out of the building.
12. Please don't manhandle the fragile artifacts in the museum.
13. The baggage handlers manhandle luggage onto the conveyor belt.
14. He couldn't help but manhandle the stubborn door to get it open.
15. The team had to manhandle the heavy equipment up the steep hill.
16. They decided to manhandle the old sofa down the narrow staircase.
17. The suspect resisted arrest, forcing the officers to manhandle him.
18. She had to manhandle the tangled mess of wires to fix the connection.
19. The rough seas threatened to manhandle the small fishing boat.
20. The movers had to manhandle the oversized piano down the hallway.
21. The coach warned the players not to manhandle their opponents on the field.
22. He watched in horror as the baggage handlers manhandled his fragile guitar case.
23. The strong winds threatened to manhandle the tents at the campsite.
24. The bullies tried to manhandle the smaller kid, but he stood his ground.
25. The construction workers had to manhandle the steel beams into place.
26. She had to manhandle the jammed printer to get it working again.
27. The angry customer attempted to manhandle the cashier during an argument.
28. The firefighters had to manhandle the heavy hoses to control the blaze.