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 of handling

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

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 unit's weight is therefore centered in the bike and that should make for better handling. — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 5 July 2026

Washing blueberries removes dirt and toxins that may cling to the fruit during handling and transporting from farm to store. — Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026

Following proper hand hygiene and safe food handling practices can also lower your risk of foodborne illness. — Caroline Kee, NBC news, 3 July 2026

The address also came as Mamdani has faced criticism over his handling of New York City’s recent heat wave. — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 3 July 2026

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