Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Attractive in appearance, especially in a dignified, pleasing, or impressive way: Used primarily to describe men who are good-looking, often implying a combination of pleasing features, strength, and dignity.
   • Substantial, considerable, or generous: Used to describe a large amount of money, profit, or a generous gift or action.

Examples of Usage

• Describing Appearance:
  • He grew into a handsome young man.
  • The actor was known for his handsome features and charismatic smile.
• Describing Amount or Action:
  • The company offered a handsome salary to attract top talent.
  • She made a handsome donation to the charity.

Advanced Usage

• "Handsome is as handsome does": A proverb meaning that a person's true worth is determined by their actions and character, not merely by their appearance.
  • He may look ordinary, but remember: handsome is as handsome does.

Variants and Related Words

• Handsomely (adverb): In a generous, substantial, or attractive manner.
  • He was handsomely rewarded for his efforts.
  • The room was handsomely decorated.

Synonyms

• Good-looking: Attractive in appearance (a more general, slightly less formal synonym).
• Generous: Willing to give more than is usual or expected (synonym for the "substantial/generous" meaning).
• Substantial: Of considerable size or value.

Antonyms

• Unattractive: Not pleasing to look at.
• Stingy: Unwilling to give or spend; ungenerous (for the "generous" meaning).

Notes on Usage

• Traditionally, handsome is more commonly applied to men, while pretty or beautiful are used for women. However, it can be used for women to describe a dignified, impressive, or striking beauty rather than a delicate one.
• When referring to amounts of money, profits, or gifts, handsome always implies a positive, appreciable size or generosity.

Adjective

1. given or giving freely
   • was a big tipper
   • the bounteous goodness of God
   • bountiful compliments
   • a freehanded host
   • a handsome allowance
   • Saturday's child is loving and giving
   • a liberal backer of the arts
   • a munificent gift
   • her fond and openhanded grandfather
2. pleasing in appearance especially by reason of conformity to ideals of form and proportion
   • a fine-looking woman
   • a good-looking man
   • better-looking than her sister
   • very pretty but not so extraordinarily handsome- Thackeray
   • our southern women are well-favored- Lillian Hellman