How Do You Spell HANDED DOWN?

Pronunciation: [hˈandɪd dˈa͡ʊn] (IPA)

The phrase "handed down" refers to passing something down from one generation to the next. The spelling of this phrase can be explained through its IPA phonetic transcription. "Handed" is pronounced [ˈhændɪd], with stress on the first syllable, and is spelled with a double "d" to indicate a voiced consonant at the end of the word. "Down" is pronounced [daʊn], with stress on the second syllable, and is spelled as such to indicate the presence of a diphthong. Together, these words create a common phrase that is easily recognizable in English.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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HANDED DOWN Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "handed down" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of passing or transmitting something from one generation to another. Typically, it describes the transfer of customs, traditions, beliefs, knowledge, or possessions, particularly within a family, community, or cultural context. It implies that the object or information being transferred has endured the test of time and has thus acquired a sense of historical or ancestral importance.

    In a literal sense, "handed down" can also describe the manual passing of an object or item from one person to another. This act often suggests a deliberate and purposeful intention to preserve or entrust something in the recipient's care. For example, a father might hand down an heirloom pocket watch to his son, symbolizing a legacy or inheritance.

    Furthermore, the phrase can allude to the transmission of legal rulings, judgments, or decisions by higher courts to lower courts or subsequent generations. This usage highlights the idea of judicial precedent, wherein legal opinions set by previous cases serve as guidelines for future decisions, maintaining consistency in the legal system.

    Overall, "handed down" signifies the continuity and preservation of cultural, familial, or legal legacies, emphasizing the idea of passing down cherished and valuable aspects from one generation to the next.

Common Misspellings for HANDED DOWN

  • handes-down
  • handded-down
  • handedd-down
  • haned-down
  • handd-down
  • hande-down
  • haanded-down
  • hande downn
  • hadnded down
  • handee downn
  • haandedd down

Etymology of HANDED DOWN

The phrase "handed down" is a combination of two words: "handed" and "down".

The word "handed" comes from the Old English word "hand", which refers to the part of the body at the end of the arm, used for holding or manipulating things. "Hand" can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz" and has cognates in various Germanic languages.

The word "down" is derived from the Old English word "dūne", which means "from a higher to a lower position". It is related to the Proto-Germanic word "dūniz" and shares similarities with other Germanic languages.

When combined, the phrase "handed down" implies the action of passing or transferring something from a higher position to a lower one using the hand.