first-stagehandling

noun

UK /ˌfɜːst ˈsteɪdʒ ˈhændlɪŋ/

US /ˌfɜːrst ˈsteɪdʒ ˈhændlɪŋ/

The first time you touch or move something to get it ready.

First-stagehandling of the new puppies means gently picking them up so they get used to people.

SYNONYMS

initial handling first touch early handling preliminary handling

RELATED WORDS

preparation inspection sorting setup

OTHER MEANINGS

2. The first step of dealing with a problem or task.

First-stagehandling of the complaint just means writing down the details.

3. The early care given to something new before more work is done.

First-stagehandling of the fresh fruit keeps it from getting bruised.

4. The first round of checking or moving goods in a process.

First-stagehandling at the warehouse sorts the boxes by size.