: knowledge of how to do something smoothly and efficiently : expertise

Examples of know-how in a Sentence

you'll gain some practical know-how in this auto mechanics class
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.
But with the right gear and know-how a mobile mission during the rut can make for an all-time great deer hunting experience. Josh Honeycutt, Outdoor Life, 7 Nov. 2024 These can easily be swapped into standard switch Joy-Cons with a screwdriver, patience, and some repair know-how. Henri Robbins, WIRED, 4 Nov. 2024 Traditionally, breaking into the industry required significant resources, including expensive equipment and technical know-how. Justin Maier, Rolling Stone, 4 Nov. 2024 With enough know-how, the researchers can then cobble together a fully synthetic genome that abides by nature’s design rules to produce a working eukaryotic cell. Quanta Magazine, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for know-how 

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of know-how was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near know-how

Cite this Entry

“Know-how.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/know-how. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

know-how

noun
ˈnō-ˌhau̇
: knowledge of how to get things done : expertise

More from Merriam-Webster on know-how

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