how-to

1 of 2

adjective

: giving practical instruction and advice (as on a craft)
how-to books on all sorts of hobbiesHarry Milt

how-to

2 of 2

noun

: a practical method or instruction
the how-tos of balancing a checkbook
also : something (such as a book) that provides such instruction

Examples of how-to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Adjective
The how-to format defined her previous television series, Martha Stewart Living, which ran from 1993 up to her federal investigation and eventual indictment for obstruction of justice in 2004. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 30 Oct. 2024 McKinsey Talks Talent podcast, Harvard Business Review, and Forbes, for example, have all profiled the science and the how-to of empathetic leadership. Martin Gutmann, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024
Noun
However, Ree Drummond, aka the Pioneer Woman, is about to change your mind entirely with a surprisingly detailed Velcro roller how-to video. Kara Nesvig, Allure, 17 Mar. 2023 The book is a how-to manual for aspiring golfers with tips and tricks for swinging, posture, balance and mental toughness. Emily Weaver, Peoplemag, 16 Mar. 2023 See all Example Sentences for how-to 

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1926, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of how-to was in 1926

Cite this Entry

“How-to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/how-to. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on how-to

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!