1. To dismiss, deny, or refuse someone or something immediately and without due discussion or consideration. She's so stubborn that she just rejected my suggestion out of hand. We'd like to try some alternative treatments. They're a bit unconventional, but please don't reject them out of hand. The company rejected me out of hand because I didn't have any prior experience as a baker.

2. To refuse to accept someone as a friend, relative, or loved one without due discussion or consideration. My grandmother rejected me out of hand when I came out as gay. If someone rejects you out of hand as their friend just because of what you believe in, then that person wasn't a real friend to begin with.