Phrase guide

throw up one's hands

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To raise both hands in the air in an exasperated manner.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To cease an attempt because it is perceived as doomed.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, intransitive

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

5 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Chinese Mandarin: 攤手 /摊手 (tānshǒu) — raise both hands in the air
  • Chinese Mandarin: 摊手 (tānshǒu) — raise both hands in the air
  • Finnish: nostaa kädet ilmaan — raise both hands in the air
  • Ukrainian: розво́дити рука́ми (rozvódyty rukámy) — raise both hands in the air
  • Ukrainian: розвести́ рука́ми (rozvestý rukámy) — raise both hands in the air