Definition of "backhand" in English

noun

1. (tennis and other, racquet sports) A stroke made across the chest from the off-hand side to the racquet hand side; a stroke during which the back of the hand faces the shot.

   • She has a mean backhand.

2. Handwriting that leans to the left.

   • It was written in a shaky backhand.

3. (Ultimate Frisbee) The standard throw; a throw during which the disc begins on the off-hand side and travels across the chest to be released from the opposite side.

4. The back of the hand: the reverse side (dorsal side) of the human hand or other primate hand.

5. (surfing) The hand towards the back of the board.

verb

1. To execute a backhand stroke or throw.

2. To slap with the back of one's hand.

adjective

1. (of handwriting) Slanting to the left.

2. (of strokes or throws) In the backhand style.

3. (ice hockey, of a play) Using the back side of the hockey stick.

   • He scored on a backhand shot.