Meaning "an act of begging" is attested from 1849, perhaps from notion of an arm stuck out like a panhandle, or of one who handles a (beggar's) pan. panhandle (v.) "to beg," 1888, from panhandle (n.) in the begging sense.

Is panhandler an offensive term?

The term is fairly derogatory, but it's commonly used for those whose mainly support themselves this way. It's best to avoid vaguely offensive terms like panhandler and beggar altogether — people asking for handouts have identities beyond begging for money or food.

What does the phrase Panhandle mean?

: to stop people on the street and ask for food or money : beg. transitive verb. 1 : to accost on the street and beg from. 2 : to get by panhandling. Other Words from panhandle More Example Sentences Learn More About panhandle.