HAND PICK Meaning and
Definition
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Hand pick is a verb phrase that is commonly used to describe the act of carefully choosing or selecting someone or something from a group by using one's hands. This term is often used metaphorically to indicate a meticulous and selective process of choice or curation.
In a literal sense, hand picking can refer to physically plucking or selecting objects or items by hand. This action entails manually examining a group of items, evaluating their quality or suitability, and then choosing the best or most appropriate option. For instance, a farmer might hand pick the ripest fruits or vegetables from a garden, ensuring that only the highest quality produce is selected.
In a metaphorical sense, hand picking implies a similar process of careful selection, but applied to people, ideas, or other intangible aspects. For example, a manager may hand pick a team of individuals for a project, carefully selecting members based on their specific skills and expertise. This suggests a deliberate and discerning approach to choosing the most capable and proficient individuals.
Hand picking often connotes a high level of attention to detail and a focus on quality or excellence. It suggests a deliberate and conscious effort to ensure that only the most suitable candidates or options are chosen, with an emphasis on precision and thoroughness. Thus, hand picking is a term that encapsulates a methodical and discerning approach to selection, applied in both literal and figurative contexts.
Etymology of HAND PICK
The word "handpick" originated in the mid-18th century and is derived from two separate words: "hand" and "pick".
"Hand" comes from the Old English word "hand", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz" and is related to the Dutch word "hand" and the German word "Hand". It refers to the part of the human body attached to the forearm, specifically the fingers and thumb, which we use for grasping and manipulating objects.
"Pick" comes from the Old English word "pician", meaning "to pitch or thrust". It has roots in various Germanic languages, such as the Old High German word "pickon" and the Middle Dutch word "pick". Originally, "pick" referred to pointed tools used for breaking or digging, and it gradually evolved to include the sense of careful selection.
Similar spelling word for HAND PICK
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