Definition

Noun: A style of rapid, fluid handwriting in which the letters of a word are formed in a continuous, connected stroke without lifting the writing instrument from the paper. It is a form of cursive writing characterized by its speed and the joining of letters.

Usage

"Running hand" refers specifically to the physical act and style of writing. It describes the appearance of the script itself, which is less formal than calligraphic styles but more connected and flowing than print or block letters. * The primary context for this term is in discussions of handwriting, penmanship, or paleography (the study of historical handwriting).

Examples

• Her running hand was so elegant that her personal letters looked like works of art.
• Historical documents from the 18th century are often challenging to read due to the elaborate running hand used by clerks.
• The teacher encouraged the students to practice their running hand to increase their writing speed for taking notes.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast with "print hand" or "block letters." While "cursive" is a more common modern synonym, "running hand" can imply a specific, sometimes personal or historical, style within the broader category of cursive writing.
• In historical analysis, experts might describe a particular scribe's style as a "rapid running hand," indicating both the technique and its legibility.

Variants and Related Words

• Cursive (n., adj.): The most common direct synonym in modern English, referring to writing where letters are joined.
• Longhand (n.): Ordinary handwriting, especially when written out in full (as opposed to shorthand or typing).
• Script (n.): Handwriting as distinct from print; also refers to a particular style of cursive writing.

Synonyms

• Cursive
• Cursive writing
• Longhand
• Script

Antonyms

• Print
• Block letters
• Manuscript writing (in some specific contexts, where it means unjoined letters)
• Shorthand

Related Phrases

• In a running hand: Written using this style.
  • The note was scribbled in a hurried running hand.
• To write a running hand: To employ this handwriting style.
  • He learned to write a running hand in primary school.

Noun

1. rapid handwriting in which letters are set down in full and are cursively connected within words without lifting the writing implement from the paper