single-hand

English

Alternative forms

• singlehand

Etymology

Back-formation from single-handed.

Verb

single-hand (third-person singular simple present single-hands, present participle single-handing, simple past and past participle single-handed)

1. To sail a boat unassisted, without any crew beyond oneself.
   • 1980, Yachting, volume 147, number 6, page 46:

     I think a lot more sailors would try singlehanding if they weren't troubled by the increasing big-ship traffic.

   • 2007, Cruising World, volume 33, number 4, page 155:

     So whether you are looking for a performance cruiser for Puget Sound, the perfect boat to single hand in this year's Pacific Cup or a great yacht to take the family on a circumnavigation, Marinero warrants more than a quick look.