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
1
: endowed with understanding : tolerant, sympathetic
an understanding supervisor
2
archaic
: knowing, intelligent
Synonyms
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
Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 8 Nov. 2024
The team used the same strontium isotopes that were used to date the DNA samples to get a better understanding of the diversity and origins of Pompeii’s residents.
—Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 7 Nov. 2024
Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Although the internet isn’t always the most understanding place, the majority of commenters took her side.
—Maria Pasquini, People.com, 22 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for understanding 
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Noun
Don’t let negativity or lack of understanding stand in your way.
—Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 8 Nov. 2024
The team used the same strontium isotopes that were used to date the DNA samples to get a better understanding of the diversity and origins of Pompeii’s residents.
—Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 7 Nov. 2024
Adjective
Embracing Flexibility And Empathy Adopt a flexible and understanding approach, acknowledging that productivity may fluctuate during election week.
—Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Although the internet isn’t always the most understanding place, the majority of commenters took her side.
—Maria Pasquini, People.com, 22 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for understanding
Dictionary Entries Near understanding
Cite this Entry
“Understanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understanding. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids 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
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