hand over hand
The phrase "hand over hand" often describes a method of movement or guidance, with origins in nautical practices.
Definition
B2Physical Movement
(common)A way of moving along a rope, rail, or similar object by alternately grasping with one hand and then the other.
Example
- She climbed the rope hand over hand until she reached the top.
- The sailor moved hand over hand along the rail.
C1Vehicle Operation
(technical)A steering technique where the driver crosses one hand over the other to turn the wheel.
Example
- He used the hand over hand method to make a sharp turn.
- Learning the hand over hand steering technique is essential for new drivers.
B2Assisted Guidance
(educational, supportive)A technique where someone physically directs another person's hands to help them perform a task.
Example
- The therapist used a hand over hand approach to help the child learn to write.
- Hand over hand guidance can be crucial for teaching new skills.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hand over hand":
hand overrunning handrun handshand in handbare handin handwith both handshand offby handhand it totaut handhand downcrank the handlepair of handsfree handtop handhold someone's handwhip handbottom handjoin handsturn overhand fruitthrow handsgrab handleall handsdead handhand rub