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noun

la mano

hand

Definition & meaning

Mano primarily means hand, the part of the body at the end of the arm. It can also refer figuratively to help, control, skill, or a coat of paint.

Other meanings include a hand of cards or a round of play, depending on the game.

Grammar & Word origin

Mano is a feminine noun: la mano, plural le mani. It is unusual because most feminine Italian nouns ending in -o do not form their plural in -i.

It comes from Latin manus, meaning “hand.”

Synonyms & antonyms

  • aiuto — “help”; a synonym only when mano means assistance.
  • strato — “layer”; it can replace mano when referring to a coat of paint, though it is more general.

There is no common direct antonym for mano in its literal sense.

Common phrases & collocations

  • dare una mano — to lend a hand or help.
  • a mano — by hand; handmade.
  • a portata di mano — within reach.
  • una mano di vernice — a coat of paint.
  • di seconda mano — second-hand.

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Examples

Lui alza la mano in classe.noun

He raises his hand in class.

La sua mano è molto fredda oggi.noun

His hand is very cold today.

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