1. a gift given at New Year or at the start of something new, especially as a token of good luck
Usage: chiefly Scottish and Northern English; archaic or regional
2. the first money received from a customer or transaction, considered lucky
Usage: archaic

1. to give a handsel to; to inaugurate or begin with a gift or ceremony
Usage: archaic; chiefly Scottish

Examples

• She received a handsel of coins on New Year's Day for good fortune.
• The shopkeeper considered the first customer's purchase a lucky handsel.
• In Scottish tradition, a handsel was given to mark the beginning of a new year.
• He was handseled with a small gift when he started his apprenticeship.
• The family exchanged handsels to bless the opening of their new home.