A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission (informally, a manual, n-speed ("n" = number of forward gears, i.e., 4-speed with overdrive, 4-speed, 5-speed, etc.) or standard, stick-shift, straight shift, straight or straight drive (U.S.)) is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications. It uses a driver-operated clutch engaged and disengaged by a foot pedal (automobile) or hand lever (motorcycle), for regulating torque transfer from the engine to the transmission; and a gear stick operated by foot (motorcycle) or by hand (automobile).
A conventional, 5-speed manual transmission is often the standard equipment in a base-model car; other options include automated transmissions such as an automatic transmission (often a manumatic), a semi-automatic transmission, or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).