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.
Families could easily turn the visit into a two-day trip thanks to the center’s Wild Walk, indoor exhibits, nature play areas, and hands-on activities. — Lisa Greissinger, Travel + Leisure, 7 Aug. 2026 Preparers, which include staff accountants, AP and AR specialists and bookkeepers, do the hands-on work like entering data, generating reports and journal entries and closing the books. — Gregg Mojica, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Generate topical daily lesson plans with engaging hands-on activities. — Beth Collums, AJC.com, 6 Aug. 2026 The other is a place where visitors explore science and innovation through hands-on exhibits that bring complex ideas to life. — Ronald Leopold, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 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 11 Aug. 2026.

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