Primarily a pull handle or knob on a drawer, sliding door, or lid. The 'patron' sense is rare and historical, referring to a supporter or backer, especially in traditional arts or sumo.
Standard kanji spelling for a pull handle or knob.
引手Usage44%
Variant spelling; less common than 引き手.
Etymology
Compound of 引き (hiki, 'pulling', the continuative form of 引く) and 手 (te, 'hand'). Literally 'pulling hand', referring to a part grasped to pull something open.
