emp·ty-hand·ed
emp·ty-hand·ed/ˌem(p)tēˈhandəd/
adjective
having failed to obtain or achieve what one wanted.
"the burglars fled empty-handed"
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Aug 20, 2024 · 1. having or bringing nothing 2. having acquired or gained nothing came back empty-handed Examples of empty-handed in a Sentence
Aug 28, 2024 · not having anything to bring or to take away: The two would-be robbers fled empty-handed.
adjective having nothing in the hands, as in doing no work: While we were carrying out the luggage, he stood by empty-handed.
/ˌˈɛm(p)ti ˌhændəd/ /ɛmptiˈhændɪd/ Definitions of empty-handed. adjective. carrying nothing in the hands.
1. having nothing in the hands, as in doing no work While we were carrying out the luggage, he stood by empty-handed 2. having gained nothing to return from a ...
without getting what you wanted; without taking something to somebody. The robbers fled empty-handed. She visited every Sunday and never arrived ...
: without having, carrying, or bringing anything. I don't want to show up (at the party) empty-handed. She came back (from the conference) empty-handed.
There are two meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective empty-handed. See 'Meaning & use' for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.
empty-handed · destitute · impoverished · indigent · low · meager · needy · penniless · poverty-stricken ...
without getting what you wanted; without taking something to someone. The robbers fled empty-handed. She visited every Sunday and never arrived empty-handed.