handsel
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhænsəl/
KK: /ˈhæn.səl/
noun
Definition
A first payment or gift given to wish someone good luck at the start of a new venture or year.
Example
She received a handsel from her friends to celebrate the opening of her new shop.
Conversation
I heard you did something special for your new business opening.
Yeah, I gave a little handsel to my first customers as a good luck charm.
That's a great idea! It must have made them feel appreciated right from the start.
Exactly! A nice little gesture can really set a positive tone.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
token
offering
gift
Antonyms
debt
loss
burden
transitive verb
Definition
To use or give something for the first time, often as a way to celebrate or mark the occasion.
Example
They decided to handsel the new ship with a bottle of champagne.
Tense Forms
Past: handselled
Past Participle: handselled
Conversation
Did you see the new café that just opened downtown?
Yes! I heard they will handsel their first espresso tomorrow.
That's exciting! I love when places do something special for their launch.
Root Explanation
Handsels are derived from the Old English 'handsel' (meaning a gift or a token), which itself comes from the Old Norse 'handsal' (meaning a gift or a pledge). The word 'handsel' refers to a gift or token given to ensure good luck or success, especially at the beginning of something new.
Memory Tip
Think of 'handsel' as a 'gift' or 'token' given to bring good fortune at the start of something new.
Visually Confused Words
hansel
hanse
ansel