know-how
UK[ˈnəʊ haʊ]US[ˈnoʊ haʊ]
n
Practical knowledge and skill needed to do something effectively.
Morpheme Breakdown
know
how
know
to have information
how
in what way
Etymology
The compound noun "know-how" is a modern formation from two ancient English words. "Know" originates from the Proto-Germanic knēaną, related to the concept of perceiving or recognizing, while "how" stems from the Proto-Germanic hwō, a word for inquiring about manner or method. Their combination in the 19th century, following the pattern of established compounds, created a term that literally means "knowing how." This directly and logically evolved into its current abstract meaning, referring to the practical expertise or technical skill required to accomplish a specific task, effectively capturing the procedural knowledge implied by the phrase.
Analysis
Structure: know (to have information) + how (in what way)
- know: From Old English cnāwan, meaning "to know, perceive, recognize." It is a Germanic root.
- how: From Old English hū, meaning "in what way, by what means." It is a Germanic interrogative/adverb.
Examples
The company purchased the firm primarily for its technical know-how.
Success in this craft requires more than just tools; it demands years of accumulated know-how.
They offered consulting services to transfer their manufacturing know-how to the new plant.