Definition of "handsel" in English

noun

1. (obsolete) A lucky omen.

2. A gift given at New Year, or at the start of some enterprise or new situation, meant to ensure good luck.

3. (archaic) Price, payment; especially the first installment of a series.

verb

1. (transitive) To give a handsel to.

2. (transitive) To inaugurate by means of some ceremony; to break in.

3. (transitive) To use or do for the first time, especially so as to make fortunate or unfortunate; to try experimentally.