handsel (redirected from handseled)

hand·sel  (hndsl) also han·sel (hn-) Chiefly British

n.

1. A gift to express good wishes at the beginning of a new year or enterprise.

2. The first money or barter taken in, as by a new business or on the opening day of business, especially when considered a token of good luck.

3.

a. A first payment.

b. A specimen or foretaste of what is to come.

tr.v. hand·seled or hand·selled, hand·sel·ing or hand·sel·ling, hand·sels

1. To give a handsel to.

2. To launch with a ceremonial gesture or gift.

3. To do or use for the first time.

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[Middle English hanselle, from Old English handselen, a handing over (hand, hand + selen, gift) and from Old Norse handsal, legal transfer (hand, hand + sal, a giving).]