righthand

Righthand is commonly used to refer to the right hand, the upper limb on the right side of the body. In most people the right hand is the dominant hand, preferred for tasks requiring precision such as writing, gripping small objects, and throwing. Globally, a majority of adults—roughly 85 to 90 percent—are right-handed; a smaller minority are left-handed, and a minority are ambidextrous, able to use either hand with similar skill. Handedness typically becomes evident in infancy and early childhood, with genetic and developmental factors contributing to individual patterns.

Handedness is linked to brain organization: for most right-handers, language and fine motor control are localized in the left hemisphere, which also controls the right hand. But precise patterns vary among individuals, and many left-handed people also use the left hemisphere predominantly. The trait interacts with culture and experience, and can influence the design of tools, interfaces, and sports equipment. Environmental factors such as childhood practice, education, and accessibility can shape preferred hand use, though biological influences tend to favor a stable pattern over time.

In idiomatic use, righthand can mean a trusted assistant or deputy, as in “the right-hand man” or “the righthand person.” The concept appears in phrases that imply closeness or support. In everyday life, awareness of handedness has prompted inclusive design—accounting for both hands in tools, keyboards, and workspaces—and considerations in ergonomics, education, and accessibility.