understanding

1 of 2

noun

un·​der·​stand·​ing ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ 

1

: a mental grasp : comprehension

2

a

: the power of comprehending

especially : the capacity to apprehend general relations of particulars

b

: the power to make experience intelligible by applying concepts and categories

3

a

: a mutual agreement not formally entered into but in some degree binding on each side

b

: friendly or harmonious relationship

c

: an agreement of opinion or feeling : adjustment of differences

4

: explanation, interpretation

5

: sympathy sense 3a

understanding

2 of 2

adjective

1

: endowed with understanding : tolerant, sympathetic

an understanding supervisor

2

archaic : knowing, intelligent

understandingly

ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

Noun

• accord
• agreement
• bargain
• compact
• contract
• convention
• covenant
• deal
• disposition
• pact
• settlement

Adjective

• commiserative
• compassionate
• empathetic
• empathic
• humane
• sympathetic

Examples of understanding in a Sentence

Noun

He has a thorough understanding of the subject.

She has a basic understanding of the process.

I hope to get a clearer understanding of the issues involved.

He seems to have little understanding of our situation.

We have an understanding that whoever cooks doesn't have to do the dishes.

She treats them with kindness and understanding.

a relationship based on mutual understanding

Adjective

a kind and understanding teacher who often helps troubled students

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Prophecy deepens the audience’s understanding of why these women crave absolute power despite its dangers, and their despicable methods to attain it. —Emma Stefansky, The Atlantic, 21 Dec. 2024

Having an understanding of these risk levels allows your security team to align the intel with their environment and make the necessary adjustments. —Bernard Brantley, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024

Adjective

John and Peter were very understanding about the development potential of players, especially from here. —Michael Walker, The Athletic, 13 Aug. 2024

Her research now focuses on better understanding how plants’ natural ability to capture and store carbon can be optimized to slow climate change. —La Jolla Light, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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

Adjective

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing understanding

• achieve/reach an understanding
• beyond comprehension/understanding
• come to an understanding
• it is someone's understanding
• on the understanding that
• self-understanding

Kids Definition

understanding

1 of 2 noun

un·​der·​stand·​ing ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ 

1

: knowledge and ability to judge : intelligence

a person of understanding

2

a

: agreement of opinion or feeling

b

: something agreed to by both sides and entered into silently or without ceremony

an understanding between two nations over trade

3

: one's belief about something based upon what is known

4

: sympathy

understanding

2 of 2 adjective

: having or showing understanding : tolerant, sympathetic

you seem very understanding

understandingly

-diŋ-lē 

adverb