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

• management
• operation
• control
• administration
• supervision
• stewardship
• oversight
• direction
• government
• governance

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

Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda, and Verstappen have all reported issues with the handling of the car and its operating window. —Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Sep. 2025

The upgrades provide sharper steering and handling. —James Raia, Mercury News, 7 Sep. 2025

But do the Nuggets have enough dependable ball-handling and play-making behind Jamal Murray in their backcourt? —Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 7 Sep. 2025

Second Harvest provides the training for the productions on food handling. —Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 7 Sep. 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

Rhymes for handling

• candling
• mishandling