How Do You Spell HAND-DOWN?

Pronunciation: [hˈanddˈa͡ʊn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "hand-down" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as "hænd," with the "a" pronounced as the short "a" sound as in "cat." The second syllable "-dəʊn" is pronounced with a long o sound as in "phone" and the "n" sound. This word is often used to refer to something that has been passed down from one generation to another, such as a family heirloom or tradition.

HAND-DOWN Meaning and Definition

  1. Hand-down is a phrasal verb that primarily means to pass or transmit something, such as knowledge, skills, or possessions, from one person to another, usually from an older generation to a younger one. It often implies the transfer of something that is considered valuable, whether in the form of information, traditions, heirlooms, or beliefs. The term is derived from the imagery of physically passing an object from one hand to another.

    In a familial or cultural context, hand-down often refers to the passing down of traditions, customs, or stories that have been in existence for generations. This could include family recipes, cultural practices, folklore, or rituals. It emphasizes the continuity and connection between different generations, as well as the importance of preserving and honoring the past.

    In a material sense, hand-down can also refer to the act of giving or bequeathing possessions or items from one person to another, typically from an older family member to a younger one. This could include passing down jewelry, clothing, furniture, or any object that holds sentimental or historical value. Hand-down possessions often carry emotional significance and can serve as a tangible link to the past.

    Overall, hand-down encapsulates the act of transferring intangible or material elements from one person to another, highlighting the significance of intergenerational connections and the preservation of heritage.

Etymology of HAND-DOWN

The word "hand-down" is a compound word formed by combining the noun "hand" and the verb "down". The noun "hand" can be traced back to the Old English word "hand", which has Germanic origins. Its roots can be further traced to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz" and the Proto-Indo-European word *ǵʰéntus. The verb "down" comes from the Old English word "dūn", also with Germanic roots, which is related to the Proto-Germanic word "dūniz". The combination of "hand" and "down" in "hand-down" reflects the idea of giving or passing something from one person to another, likely by handing it down from an elevated position (the hand) to a lower one.

Similar spelling words for HAND-DOWN

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