noun

hand

Charge of someone or something.

The documents are now in the lawyer's hands.

Etymology

The hand’s ability to hold and direct supplied a metaphor for control. Something in a person’s hands is entrusted to that person's management or care.

More examples

  • Your pet is in good hands.
  • The decision rests in her hands.
  • Control passed into new hands.

Forms

hand · hands

Similar words

care
Emphasizes responsibility and protection rather than power.