how-to

1 of 2

adjective

Synonyms of how-tonext
: giving practical instruction and advice (as on a craft)
how-to books on all sorts of hobbies.Harry Milt

how-to

2 of 2

noun

: a practical method or instruction
the how-tos of balancing a checkbook
also : something (such as a book) that provides such instruction

Examples of how-to 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.
Adjective
Beyond how-to books, the United States offered few means of studying art, few great paintings to imitate, and, thanks to American prudery, few chances to master the complex arrangements of human bodies considered indispensable to art’s most profound forms. Susan Tallman, The Atlantic, 13 June 2026 For context on how the night was framed coming in, here's the original how-to-watch and stakes preview for the Giza card. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026
Noun
However, Ree Drummond, aka the Pioneer Woman, is about to change your mind entirely with a surprisingly detailed Velcro roller how-to video. Kara Nesvig, Allure, 17 Mar. 2023 The book is a how-to manual for aspiring golfers with tips and tricks for swinging, posture, balance and mental toughness. Emily Weaver, Peoplemag, 16 Mar. 2023 See All Example Sentences for how-to

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1905, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of how-to was in 1905

Cite this Entry

“How-to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/how-to. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on how-to

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster