[f. ARM sb.1 + -FUL.] As much as can be held in both arms (or in one); hence, a large quantity, a ‘heap.’
1579. J. Stubbes, Gaping Gulf, C vij. By armefuls lading [money] out of the exchequer.
c. 1613. Rowlands, More Knaues, 28. I like a hamdfull of old loue and true, Better then these whole armefuls of your new.
c. 1720. Mrs. Centlivre, Wonder, I. i. Thou shalt have an armful of flesh and blood.
1824. Galt, Rothelan, I. I. xiii. 123. Followed by the nurse with an armful of apparel.
