manual
UK: ˈmæn.ju.əl | US: ˈmæn.ju.əl
adj. relating to or done with the hands
n. a book of instructions or guidelines
n. a vehicle with manual transmission
The word "manual" traces back to the Latin manus (hand) and the suffix -alis (relating to). It originally described tasks performed by hand, later extending to instructional books (as they were historically handwritten) and machinery operated by hand (e.g., manual transmission). The logic reflects a progression from physical action to abstract guidance.
The artist prefers manual sketching over digital tools.
Refer to the user manual for assembly instructions.
He drives a manual car to enjoy greater control.
Manual labor was essential in ancient agriculture.
The teacher provided a manual for the science experiment.