Meaning of the word firsthand in English

What does firsthand mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

firsthand

US /ˌfɝːstˈhænd/
UK /ˌfɜːstˈhænd/
"firsthand" picture

Adjective

obtained directly from the original source or experience

Example:
She has firsthand experience with the challenges of starting a business.
The reporter gathered firsthand accounts from the witnesses.

Adverb

from the original source or personal experience

Example:
I learned about the culture firsthand by living with a local family.
You can see the effects of climate change firsthand in the Arctic.