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

Maine — The state used $5.6 million from its pandemic relief fund to expand its Extended Learning Opportunity program, which provides hands-on, credit-bearing experiences outside of classrooms so students can gain valuable workforce skills. —Jean Eddy, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

Imagine a robot that can help with chores or serve as a hands-on learning tool. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 17 June 2025

Whether the new ideas came from Alexander himself or from the top, the new defensive backs coach was often responsible for the hands-on installs during OTAs and minicamp. —Mike Defabo, New York Times, 16 June 2025

Financial concerns and a desire for hands-on work are driving some students toward technical education. —Kayla Jimenez, USA Today, 16 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hands-on

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