Dictionary
heavy–handed
adjective heavy–hand·ed \-ˈhan-dəd\
: dealing with people or problems in a severe or harsh way : too strict or controlling
: awkward or clumsy : showing a lack of skill
Full Definition of HEAVY-HANDED
1
: clumsy
See heavy–handed defined for English-language learners
See heavy-handed defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of HEAVY-HANDED
1647
Learn More About HEAVY-HANDED
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: heavy–headedPrevious Word in the Dictionary: heavy goingAll Words Near: heavy-handed
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up heavy-handed? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).