hands-on

adjective

ˈhan(d)z-ˈȯn How to pronounce hands-on (audio)
-ˈän
Synonyms of hands-onnext
1
: relating to, being, or providing direct practical experience in the operation or functioning of something
hands-on training
also : involving or allowing use of or touching with the hands
a hands-on museum display
2
: characterized by active personal involvement
a hands-on manager

Examples of hands-on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Vasarhelyi, seemingly a less hands-on presence in this project, voices a few more misgivings, at one stage pointedly asking her husband how many people who have previously been guests at their dinner table are now dead. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 5 Sep. 2026 Central colleague cafes provide complimentary premium coffee and beverages, while gaming lounges with puzzles and tabletop games offer opportunities for hands-on breaks from screens. — Charlotte Observer, 4 Sep. 2026 Operating inside Loehmann’s Plaza Shopping Center, the business provides hands-on math assistance and learning for students in grades K-12. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 2026 For something more hands-on, Atlanta Motorsports Park in Dawsonville has a challenging kart circuit where karts can reach 50 mph or more. — Chris Teague, AJC.com, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hands-on

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of hands-on was in 1905

Rhymes for hands-on

See All Rhymes for hands-on

Browse Nearby Words

handsomeness
hands-on
handspan
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hands-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hands-on. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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