know-how
Americannoun
noun
-
ingenuity, aptitude, or skill; knack
-
commercial and saleable knowledge of how to do a particular thing; experience
Etymology
Origin of know-how
1830–40, noun use of verb phrase know how
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.
He still has the ability; adding that to his know-how and the superb character of a man who was always highly popular with his England team-mates, I would put him in my squad.
From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026
She sees her straight talk and government know-how as assets once voters focus.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026
The move comes as Zara is seeking to position itself further upmarket and broaden its appeal, bringing in Galliano’s know-how in haute couture-inspired artisanal collections and high fashion.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026
Moreover, the conflict is becoming more drawn out, and even if it subsides there is a risk of an instable resolution where Iranian nuclear material and know-how leaks out to hostile groups around the Gulf.
From MarketWatch • Mar. 10, 2026
“Seriously, it’s more complicated than you think. You gotta have a little know-how and you gotta develop your own style.”
From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko
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.
