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

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. —Rufina Chow, NBC news, 3 Apr. 2026

There’s a special focus on hands-on culinary and garden education for local youth. —Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2026

Within this facility, around 120 humanoid robots are undergoing hands-on training alongside human supervisors, steadily developing the skills needed for industrial operations. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 3 Apr. 2026

The hands-on time builds skills and develops habits for responsible, impactful innovation. —Teuila Hanson, Fortune, 3 Apr. 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