by hand

phrase

1
: with the hands or a hand-worked implement (such as a tool or pen) rather than with a machine
2
: from one individual directly to another
deliver the document by hand

Examples of by hand 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.
Patterns are draped, drafted and developed on the body, with guidelines basted by hand. — Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 2 July 2026 Dave stopped doing calculations by hand and quit hunt-and-peck typing in 1987. — Annie Lowrey, The Atlantic, 29 June 2026 To get rid of pests, remove them with a strong spray of water from the garden hose, treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap, or remove the pests by hand. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 3 July 2026 The curtain and liner can then be washed by hand or on the gentle cycle in the washer with cold water and your regular laundry detergent. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for by hand

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of by hand was before the 12th century

Rhymes for by hand

See All Rhymes for by hand

Browse Nearby Words

by halves
by hand
by heart
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“By hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20hand. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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