how-to
Americanadjective
noun
-
a set of step-by-step instructions for accomplishing a certain task or reaching a certain objective.
a how-to for fixing a leaky faucet.
-
the basic principles or approach for doing something.
the how-to of investing in the stock market.
adjective
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Inflected Forms
Nouns
Etymology
Origin of how-to
First recorded in 1925–30
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
The streaming giant has signed agreements with publishers including Penske Media, BuzzFeed Studios, Conde Nast, Hearst Magazines and People Inc. to feature a range of news, lifestyle, celebrity and how-to video programming.
From Barron's ● Jul. 7, 2026
The Agriculture Department provides a handy how-to for dealing with leftover food, advising consumers on wrapping, reheating and thawing, and handling what the agency calls “leftover ‘leftovers.’”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 28, 2025
There’s just the president saying, “Hey, guys, you should do this,” with a promise of a how-to to come.
From Slate ● Oct. 21, 2025
The writing team, both former Times editors with extensive experience covering show business, have written “Breaking Into New Hollywood,” a how-to guide like no other.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 8, 2025
If I keep thinking and brainstorming and watching how-to videos—instead of doing—it’s never going to happen.
From "The House That Lou Built" by Mae Respicio
Have a look at reviews and how-tos before you plunk down $49.99.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 15, 2022
Because I knew the most English, I researched Americanized things and how-tos for my parents.
From New York Times ● Oct. 22, 2022
At best, her songs are how-tos on surviving in a patriarchal system.
From Salon ● Oct. 7, 2022
And the company’s Body Builder Advisory Service offers a range of guides and how-tos for cops that want to modify or improve their trucks with aftermarket equipment.
From The Verge ● Jul. 28, 2022
I tell them about the how-tos and expect them to look nervous or uncomfortable, but neither of them does.
From "Hello, Universe" by Erin Entrada Kelly
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
