second hand

(noun) an intermediate person; used in the phrase `at second hand'. Example: "He could learn at second hand from books."

(noun) hand marking seconds on a timepiece.

(adj) derived from what is primary or original; not firsthand. Synonyms: secondhand. Examples: "A secondhand report." "A secondhand account of a memory of something once read." "Most of our knowledge is secondhand."

(adj) previously used or owned by another. Synonyms: secondhand, used. Example: "Bought a secondhand (or used) car."

(adv) from a source of previously owned goods. Example: "I prefer to buy second hand."

(adv) by indirect means. Synonyms: secondhand. Examples: "I heard about it only secondhand or thirdhand." "He prefers to buy secondhand."