Something you can grip or hold onto with your hand for support or stability, like a handle on a rock wall or a strap on public transportation.
Compound of 'hand' (Old English 'hand') and 'hold' (Old English 'haldan,' meaning to grasp or keep). Originally a climbing and nautical term describing any feature designed to be gripped by hand for safety.
Rock climbers classify handholds by size and grip type—a 'jug' is large and easy (like a jug handle), while a 'crimp' is painful and tiny, requiring finger strength; some climbers develop calluses so thick they can climb with bare skin that would make your palms bleed on your first try.
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