Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for empty-handed. Search instead for emptyhanded.
Definitions

empty-handed

[emp-tee-han-did] / ˈɛmp tiˈhæn dɪd /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Elizabeth Holmes, founder of Theranos, walked out of his office empty-handed.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

Kristen Bell, “Nobody Wants This” “Jean Smart isn’t going to win this award four straight times and then go home empty-handed for the final season of ‘Hacks.’

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Twenty-four men have lifted the trophy in Sheffield; hundreds have left empty-handed.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

“Marty Supreme,” which was nominated for nine awards, went home empty-handed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

Hours later, despite Roosevelt’s best efforts, he came back empty-handed.

From "Death on the River of Doubt" by Samantha Seiple




Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "empty-handed" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com