handmade

UK: ˈhændmeɪd | US: ˈhændmeɪd

Definition

  1. adj. made by hand, not by machine

  2. n. an object made by hand (less common)

Structure
hand <part of the body used for making>made <created>
Etymology

The word "handmade" is a straightforward compound of "hand" (Old English hand, meaning the body part used for crafting) and "made" (Old English macian, "to create"). It emerged in the 17th century to distinguish manually crafted items from mass-produced goods during industrialization. The term reflects a literal fusion of process ("hand") and outcome ("made"), emphasizing human skill over mechanization.

Examples

  1. She sells handmade jewelry at the local market.

  2. The quilt was carefully handmade by his grandmother.

  3. Consumers often pay more for handmade products.

  4. This pottery is entirely handmade using traditional techniques.

  5. The store specializes in handmade leather goods.