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panhandle

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈpænˌhændl/

KK: /ˈpænˌhændl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To ask people for money or food, usually in a public place, often by approaching them directly.


Example

He decided to panhandle on the street corner to get some money for food.


Tense Forms

Past: panhandled

Past Participle: panhandled


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen someone panhandle on the street?
Sloth B
Yeah, I saw a person doing that just yesterday.
Sloth A
It makes me wonder what their story is.
Sloth B
I know, it's tough to see people in that situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
beg
mendicant
scrounge
Antonyms
give
donate
provide
noun
Definition

A narrow strip of land that sticks out from a larger area, often used to describe certain regions of states.


Example

The panhandle of Texas is known for its wide-open spaces and ranches.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever visited the panhandle of Texas?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard it's really interesting.
Sloth A
Yeah, it's a unique area with a lot of history.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To ask strangers for money or help, usually in a public place.


Example

He decided to panhandle on the street corner to raise some money for food.


Tense Forms

Past: panhandled

Past Participle: panhandled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that guy on the corner trying to panhandle?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's tough to watch sometimes.
Sloth A
I wonder if he gets enough help from people passing by.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Panhandle → The word is formed from "pan" (from the Spanish word "pan", meaning bread) and "handle" (meaning a part that is held). The term originally referred to a region shaped like a handle, particularly in the context of geographical areas that extend from a larger body, resembling a handle on a pan.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'handle' on a 'pan' — this helps you remember that 'panhandle' refers to a region that extends like a handle.

Visually Confused Words
manhandle
pandle
panade
handle
Is this page helpful?
I'd love to explore it someday, it sounds fascinating!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strip
projection
appendage
Antonyms
core
center
mainland
I hope so; it's hard to rely on panhandling for a living.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cadge
beg
solicit
Antonyms
donate
give
offer