handling

noun

han·​dling ˈhan-dᵊl-iŋ 

ˈhan(d)-liŋ

1

a

: the action of one that handles something

b

: a process by which something is handled in a commercial transaction

especially : the packaging and shipping of an object or material (as to a consumer)

2

: the manner in which something is treated (as in a musical, literary, or art work)

Synonyms

• administration
• care
• charge
• conduct
• control
• direction
• governance
• government
• guidance
• intendance
• management
• operation
• oversight
• presidency
• regulation
• running
• stewardship
• superintendence
• superintendency
• supervision

Examples of handling in a Sentence

These items require careful handling.

There are additional charges for shipping and handling.

The car's handling was smooth.

Recent Examples on the Web

The best news is that every mode reflects the improved handling dynamics Mercedes-Benz has brought to its entire model line over the past decade. —Karl Brauer, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

The University of California is aiming to speed up handling of faculty misconduct cases. —Teresa Watanabe, Los Angeles Times, 23 Jan. 2025

The legislative push comes after years of Republicans going on the offense politically against the Biden administration’s handling of the U.S.-Mexico border and record numbers of migrants who entered the country. —Al Weaver, The Hill, 20 Jan. 2025

President Joe Biden’s current secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, has been a frequent target of Republican criticism for the administration’s handling of unlawful crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border. —Erin Mansfield, USA TODAY, 18 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing handling

• shipping and handling
• special handling