handsome
UK: ˈhænsəm | US: ˈhænsəm
adj. pleasing in appearance; attractive
adj. (archaic) suitable or fitting
adj. generous or ample in size (e.g., "a handsome profit")
The word "handsome" originated in late Middle English (15th century), combining "hand" (referring to skill or control) and the suffix "-some" (meaning "characterized by"). Initially, it meant "easy to handle or manipulate," later evolving to imply "apt, fitting," and eventually shifting to its modern sense of physical attractiveness by the 16th century. The progression reflects a cultural association between dexterity (hand skill) and aesthetic appeal.
The actor was praised for his handsome features.
She received a handsome reward for her hard work.
(Archaic) The solution was both simple and handsome.
The hotel offered a handsome view of the mountains.
He donated a handsome sum to charity.