'single-handed' originates from the combination of 'single,' meaning 'one,' and 'handed,' referring to 'using one's hand or hands.'

'single-handed' evolved from the Old English word 'hand' and the Middle English 'single,' eventually forming the modern English term 'single-handed.'

Initially, it meant 'using one hand,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'done by one person alone.'