hand-me-down

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.

"Conversely, when brides were familiar with the story of the dress, like with a hand-me-down, they were far more positive about it and treated it more like treasure than a cursed item."

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2026

It is one of the most deprived wards in the city and she recalls a childhood of hand-me-down clothes and poverty.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2024

Outfit details: Urban Outfitters loafers and socks, hand-me-down skirt and tank top.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2023

Their 15-year-old hand-me-down Toyota Auris, nicknamed Martina, needs replacing.

From Reuters • Nov. 13, 2023

Deborah died in the clothes she wore to bed that night, including my hand-me-down soccer jersey that she loved.

From "How Dare the Sun Rise" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana