hands-on

American  

[handz-on, -awn] / ˈhændzˈɒn, -ˈɔn /

adjective

1. characterized by or involved in active personal participation in an activity; individual and direct.

   a workshop to give children hands-on experience with computers.

2. requiring manual operation, control, adjustment, or the like; not automatic or computerized.

   the old hands-on telephone switchboards.

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hands-on British  

adjective

1. involving practical experience of equipment, etc

   hands-on training in the use of computers

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Etymology

Origin of hands-on

First recorded in 1905–10; by analogy with hands-off

Example Sentences

A new way to experience the local culture on vacation: hands-on workshops from flower arranging in Belgium to basket weaving in southern Africa.

From The Wall Street Journal

He has previously said as a vice chairman in charge of Berkshire’s noninsurance operations that he is more hands-on than his predecessor.

From The Wall Street Journal

Only 16% said they regularly helped with more hands-on personal care like bathing and dressing, while 15% said they did this occasionally.

From MarketWatch

Most hands-on elements of her degree, including art studio work, were ultimately lost to the lockdowns of Covid.

From BBC

In contrast, older fans are driving growth—drawn to nostalgia, hands-on hobbies and premium collectibles that can sell for hundreds of dollars.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• firsthand