Hand-me-downs

Hand-me-downs refer to used items, typically clothing, toys, or household goods, passed down from one person to another, often within a family or a close network. They are frequently given to younger siblings, relatives, or friends. The practice is driven by factors like cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and sentimental value, where items are reused instead of being discarded. hand-me-downs can signify resourcefulness and family connection, while also addressing concerns around environmental impact from overconsumption. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe anything passed down, such as ideas or traditions.

Hand-me-downs meaning with examples

• Growing up in a large family, Sarah received a steady stream of hand-me-downs from her older siblings. She happily wore her sister's outgrown dresses and played with her brother's used toys. It was a practical way to save money, and Sarah felt connected to her family's shared history through these items, learning to appreciate thrift and recycling.
• The new parents were thrilled to receive a generous donation of hand-me-downs from their friends, including baby clothes, a crib, and a stroller. This saved them a significant amount on initial baby expenses. They carefully sorted and organized the items, feeling grateful for the support and the opportunity to give these belongings a second life with their own child.
• Before the new school year started, the school offered a program where parents could donate and receive hand-me-downs for their children. Clothes that no longer fit were collected and made available to families in need, creating an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to outfit students. The response was overwhelming, reflecting community support for sustainable practices.
• The family tradition of sharing family heirlooms evolved; the children did not just receive money from the inheritance, but were given some hand-me-downs of valuable tools, from grandad, ensuring his legacy to his kids and grandkids, who were then able to learn the craft and trade.