hands-on

adjective

ˈhan(d)z-ˈȯn 

-ˈän

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

That means adding career relevance through experiences such as internships, research, or capstone projects—deep, hands-on learning opportunities that help lead to first jobs. —Jamie Merisotis, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

Sign up to The Selection newsletter for hands-on product reviews, expert shopping tips and a look at the best deals and sales each week. —Elizabeth Robinson, NBC news, 11 June 2026

Italy has long been the global anchor for this kind of immersive travel, and a handful of programs across Tuscany and Florence have built reputations for hands-on instruction inside historic villas and prestigious culinary institutions. —Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 10 June 2026

Only 15 minutes of hands-on time goes into the side dish recipe that friends and family can't stop raving over. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 10 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for hands-on

• anton
• argon
• axon
• baronne
• baryon
• baton
• boron
• buisson
• bygone
• capon
• cardon
• chiffon