secondhand
1. adverb Indirectly, as opposed to from the original source. But I heard secondhand, so who knows if that information is actually true.
2. adjective Describing information that has been learned indirectly, as opposed to from the original source. I can't trust this secondhand gossip! Who was in the meeting and can tell us what really happened?
at second hand
Not from the original source. Are you sure that Susie and Bill are selling their house? I mean, you only heard that at second hand from Anita.
at second hand
Received from some source other than the original. For example, I learned of Mary's divorce at second hand. This phrase may be applied to information or to previously owned merchandise. [1400s] Also see at first hand.
at second hand
by hearsay rather than direct observation or experience.