second hand
The term "second hand" can refer to an element of a clock, pre-owned goods, or information obtained indirectly.
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Definition
A2Timekeeping
(technical)The pointer on a clock or watch that indicates the seconds.
Example
- The second hand moved swiftly around the clock face.
B1Commerce
(common)Describes items that have been previously owned or used by someone else.
Example
- She bought a second-hand car to save money.
- The shop specializes in second-hand books.
B2Information
(common)Describes information or knowledge obtained through an intermediary rather than directly.
Example
- He got the news second-hand from a friend.
- Her story was based on second-hand accounts.
B2Health
(technical)Smoke inhaled involuntarily from someone else's cigarette.
Example
- Second-hand smoke can be harmful to non-smokers.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "second hand":