handy dandy

I would like to know the meaning of "handy dandy". I've seen this in phrases like " my handy dandy dictionary", for example.

[Barb_D]

When something is "handy" it's very convenient.

"Handy dandy" is just a cute way of referring to something that is extremely convenient.

I am picturing someone saying it with a smile as they pull out their "handy dandy X" to show how well-prepared they are to address whatever situation is presenting itself.

[Delmobile]

"Dandy" was popular slang for "very good, fine" about a hundred years ago, I think. The only time you hear it used nowadays (in the US anyway) is ironically: "Well, isn't that just fine and dandy!" (said when it clearly isn't).

Pairing "dandy" with the also somewhat old-fashioned word "handy" is thus self-consciously quaint, or "cute" as Barb D put it.

[retro]

Originally Posted by Delmobile

"Dandy" was popular slang for "very good, fine" about a hundred years ago, I think. The only time you hear it used nowadays (in the US anyway) is ironically: "Well, isn't that just fine and dandy!" (said when it clearly isn't).

Pairing "dandy" with the also somewhat old-fashioned word "handy" is thus self-consciously quaint, or "cute" as Barb D put it.

I can remember Forrest Gump using "dandy" when he and the girl were riding the school bus.

Girl - What's wrong with your legs?
FG - Um, nothing at all, thank you. My legs are just fine and dandy.