English edit

Etymology edit

From hand +‎ man, modelled after handmaiden, etc. For the printing sense, see by hand.

Noun edit

handman (plural handmen)

  1. (archaic, rare) A (male) servant; manservant
    • 2006, James Clemens, Shadowfall:
      No one knew how many Oracles would show up at each ceremony, seeking replacements for their lieges' handmaidens or handmen.
  2. (printing) One who assembles printing type by hand.
    • 1918, The Industrial Education Survey of the City of New York, page 44:
      The handman reads copy and assembles type by hand, including straight composition, tables and display.