håndfull

Håndfull is a Norwegian noun meaning the amount that can be held in one hand, i.e., a small, approximate quantity of something. It is used to describe a non-specific number of countable items, such as foods or small objects, where the precise count is not important. For example, en håndfull mandler (a handful of almonds) or en håndfull mennesker (a small number of people). The term can also describe a modest portion or collection, as in en håndfull mynter (a handful of coins).

Etymology and sense: The word is formed from hånd ('hand') and full, literally the amount that fits in a hand. In usage, it conveys practicality rather than precision, and is common in both everyday speech and writing.

Usage notes: It is typically used with a singular indefinite construction ('en håndfull') and can be followed by av when referring to a subset of a larger group ('en håndfull av dem'). The quantity is inherently variable and depends on the size of the items and the holder's hand.

Variations and cognates: In Danish, a closely related word is håndfuld, with the same general meaning.