Books or documents that give instructions or information about how to do something or operate a machine.
From Latin 'manualis' (relating to the hand), from 'manus' (hand). The meaning evolved because many instructional documents were originally hand-written, and the work involved was 'manual' or hands-on.
Ironically, as machines became more complex and potentially dangerous, manufacturers had to write increasingly detailed manuals—the more advanced the technology, the more critical it became to have instructions in writing.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.