Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Handy

Handy (hand"y) , adjective

[Old English hendi, Anglo-Saxon hendig (in comp.), from hand hand; akin to Dutch handig, Gothic handugs clever, wise.]

1.
Performed by the hand. [Obsolete]
To draw up and come to handy strokes. — Milton
2.
Skillful in using the hand; dexterous; ready; adroit.
Each is handy in his way. — Dryden
3.
Ready to the hand; near; also, suited to the use of the hand; convenient; valuable for reference or use; as, my tools are handy; a handy volume.
4.
(Nautical) Easily managed; obedient to the helm; -- said of a vessel.