Definitions

hands-on

[handz-on, -awn] / ˈhændzˈɒn, -ˈɔn /

ADJECTIVE

active participation; experiential

Synonyms

STRONGEST

firsthand

STRONG

manual primary

WEAK

direct experienced explicit immediate individual intimate

Antonyms

STRONGEST

automatic computerized impersonal indirect

WEAK

second-hand

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.

The experience was hands-on, welcoming and surprisingly relaxing.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

“Why not let them get hands-on experience? Why just have them sit and watch?” said Rory Johnson, the child development instructor at the adult school.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

Prof. Feucht combines cancer research with hands-on clinical care.

From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026

The federal government isn’t just funding quantum, but adopting a hands-on approach.

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

It was the hands-on end of the struggle: placing babies with adoptive parents, finding work for the unemployed and medical help for the uninsured.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela