hands-off

adjective

ˈhan(d)z-ˈȯf How to pronounce hands-off (audio)
Synonyms of hands-offnext
: characterized by noninterference
a hands-off policy toward the internal affairs of other nations

Examples of hands-off 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.
This cruise is for anyone who appreciates spectacle, and especially for travelers who want a hands-off planning experience—everything, truly everything, will be served to you on a platter. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 By contrast, Langley has been relatively hands-off with her song, occasionally promoting it on TikTok or with notable live performances, but rarely with such a transparently or winkingly heavy hand, and not nearly as regularly. — Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 29 Sep. 2026 The Justice Department and FCC have approved the transaction without asking for any concessions or remedies — an unusually hands-off approach for such a large horizontal merger. — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 21 Sep. 2026 This Mississippi Pot Roast recipe is made for the low, slow, hands-off luxurious nature of a slow cooker. — Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hands-off

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hands-off was in 1860

Rhymes for hands-off

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Browse Nearby Words

handsled
hands-off
handsome
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Cite this Entry

“Hands-off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hands-off. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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