1. the act of holding someone’s hand, especially as a gesture of affection, support, or guidance
2. excessive guidance or assistance given to someone, especially in a way that prevents independence
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The couple walked through the park, enjoying the simple pleasure of handholding.
• Parents often use handholding to comfort their children during scary movies.
• The new employee complained about too much handholding from her supervisor.
• The training program was criticized for excessive handholding rather than promoting independent learning.
• Some handholding is necessary when teaching complex procedures to beginners.
• The romantic handholding scene was beautifully filmed at sunset.