Definition

The quantity of something that can be held in a person's closed hand.

Example

He grabbed a fistful of sand and let it slip through his fingers.

Conversation

I just picked up a fistful of colorful candies from the store.

That sounds fun! What flavors did you get?

I got a mix, but I think my favorite is the sour one.

Sour candies are the best, especially when you have a whole fistful!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fistful → It is formed from "fist" (from Old English "fist", meaning a hand with fingers curled) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "fistful" means full of or as much as can be held in a fist.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'fist' being 'full of' something — that's what a fistful means.

Visually Confused Words