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
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
Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 May 2025
To that end, a better understanding of where the American consumer is headed may lie in the automotive aftermarket.
—Faisal Kutty, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
Zoe G. Phillips, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2025
The clip, which has been viewed over 65,000 times, was met with a kind and understanding response from other Instagram users, seeing the fun in the clip.
—Arick Wierson, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understanding
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Noun
Here's a better understanding of what Pope Leo XIV wore on Thursday.
—Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 May 2025
To that end, a better understanding of where the American consumer is headed may lie in the automotive aftermarket.
—Faisal Kutty, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
Adjective
Phelan has worked on other sets with less understanding crews, where she was asked to repeat complicated dance steps over and over again.
—Zoe G. Phillips, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2025
The clip, which has been viewed over 65,000 times, was met with a kind and understanding response from other Instagram users, seeing the fun in the clip.
—Arick Wierson, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understanding
Cite this Entry
“Understanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understanding. Accessed 12 May. 2025.
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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