Definition

Noun: A hand mower is a lawn mower that is powered and operated by human force, without the use of an engine or motor. It typically has a cylindrical reel of blades that spin when the mower is pushed forward, cutting the grass with a scissor-like action.

Usage

The term hand mower is used to specify a type of gardening tool distinguished by its manual operation. It is often discussed in contexts comparing it to powered mowers or when describing traditional, quiet, or eco-friendly lawn care methods. - The old-fashioned hand mower requires more physical effort but is much quieter than a gas mower. - For a small lawn, a hand mower is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.

Advanced Usage

• As a compound noun modifier: The term can function attributively to describe related concepts.
  • He prefers the hand-mower approach to lawn care for its simplicity. (Note: Often hyphenated when used as a compound adjective before a noun.)

Variants and Related Words

• Reel mower: A more specific technical synonym for a hand mower, referring to the cylindrical reel cutting mechanism.
• Push mower: A common near-synonym, though it can sometimes ambiguously refer to any mower pushed by hand, including some powered models.
• Lawn mower: The general hypernym (broader category) for all devices used to cut grass.

Synonyms

• Manual lawn mower
• Reel mower (when emphasizing the cutting mechanism)

Antonyms

• Power mower
• Gas mower
• Electric mower
• Riding mower

Related Phrases

• To mow by hand: The action of using a hand mower.
  • I mow by hand to get some exercise and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Noun

1. a lawn mower that is operated by hand