offhand
|off-hand|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌɔːfˈhænd/
🇬🇧
/ˌɒfˈhænd/
casual, unprepared
Etymology
Etymology Information
'offhand' originates from the phrase 'off the hand,' where 'off' meant 'away' and 'hand' referred to 'manual work or preparation.'
Historical Evolution
'off the hand' transformed into the modern English word 'offhand' through Middle English usage.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'away from manual work or preparation,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'without preparation or forethought.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
without previous thought or preparation; casual or informal.
His offhand remarks were not well received.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 1
without preparation or forethought.
I can't think of an answer offhand.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41