Meaning & Definition of word "Secondhand"

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    Secondhand

    /ˈsɛkɪndˌhænd/

    noun:

    • 1. Something that has had one or more previous owners.
      • Example: The store specializes in selling secondhand goods.
    • 2. A term used to refer to the second hand of a watch or clock.
      • Example: The secondhand of the clock is moving quickly.

    adjective:

    • 1. Pre-owned or used; not new.
      • Example: She bought a secondhand bicycle to save money.
    • 2. Obtained from someone else; indirect.
      • Example: He learned about the event through secondhand information.

    Etymology

    From Middle English 'second hand', referring to hand-me-down items.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    secondhand smoke:

    Smoke that is inhaled involuntarily from tobacco being smoked by others.

    secondhand information:

    Information that has been passed on through others rather than obtained directly.

    Related Words

    thrift:

    A practice of buying secondhand items, often to save money.

    antique:

    A collectible item that is valued because of its age, often regarded as a form of secondhand.

    Slang Meanings of secondhand

    Meaning: Goods that are not new and are often found in discount shops.

    Example Sentence: I found some awesome secondhand gems at the flea market.