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

• administration
• care
• charge
• conduct
• control
• direction
• governance
• government
• guidance
• intendance
• management
• operation
• oversight
• presidency
• regulation
• running
• stewardship
• superintendence
• superintendency
• supervision

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

With high future new orders expectations and shipments still strong, some critical positive dynamics remain in play for material handling despite weakness and contractions in a number of series. —Jason Schenker, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024

Amy Koch, former Republican majority leader of the Minnesota Senate and a political strategist, argued that Walz's responses to his handling of the protests haven't been very nuanced. —Sudiksha Kochi, USA TODAY, 30 Sep. 2024

Her handling of the COVID pandemic was widely praised. —Eduardo García, San Antonio Express-News, 29 Sep. 2024

When Pat dies suddenly, a bereft Angie finds herself in a situation that puts her at odds with Shing’s family, whose handling of their grief begins to look a lot like callous discrimination. —Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 27 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing handling

• shipping and handling
• special handling