noun
finger marks; grime from hands
Refers to dirt, oil, or smudges left on surfaces by handling. Often used for well-worn objects like books or handrails.
図書館の本は手垢で汚れていることがある。
Library books are sometimes stained with finger marks.
手垢がついた手すりを掃除した。
I cleaned the handrail covered in grime from hands.
Compound of 手 (hand) and 垢 (dirt, grime).