Definition
Hands which are rough, reddish, and dry, as from irritation and chafing caused by immersion in hot water mixed with detergent.
Origins
Possibly coined circa mid-1920s for the advertising of Lever Brothers "Lux" brand dishwashing soap.
In Context
- "Avoid dishpan hands. Those 1950s sitcom moms had it right (and probably had lovely hands): Wear rubber gloves while cleaning and doing dishes."