singlehandedness

Singlehandedness refers to the act of performing a task or operation with only one hand. This can apply to a wide range of activities, from everyday actions like eating or writing to more specialized tasks in sports, professions, or hobbies. The term often implies a deliberate choice to use only one hand, or a situation where one hand is unavailable or injured, requiring the other hand to compensate.

In the context of sailing, "singlehanded" specifically describes a sailor who is managing a boat alone, without any crew. This requires a high level of skill, endurance, and self-reliance, as the single sailor is responsible for all aspects of navigation, sail handling, and vessel maintenance. Singlehanded sailing races are a significant category in competitive sailing.

Beyond sailing, singlehandedness can be observed in various sports. For example, in sports like tennis or badminton, a player might be described as playing singlehanded if they are attempting to return shots with only one functional limb due to injury. In professional contexts, certain delicate procedures may be performed singlehandedly by surgeons or technicians. The ability to perform tasks effectively with one hand is often a marker of dexterity and adaptability.