have the upper hand

== English == === Etymology === From Middle English over hond, from Old English ofer- + hand (superior control; superior position). Not, as supposed, from a card game or counting-out game. === Pronunciation === === Noun === the upper hand (usually uncountable, plural upper hands) (idiomatic) Advantage or control. (obsolete) The place of honour accorded to a social superior when walking together; the right of way in walking ==== Translations ====