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

His approval of his handling of the economy, which is his other signature issue he was elected on, is now at 37 percent according to our latest CBS poll. —CBS News, 28 Dec. 2025

Views of his handling of the economy are sharply divided along partisan lines, however. —Nandika Chatterjee, Time, 27 Dec. 2025

Reaching 700 km/h (435 mph) in two seconds over such a short distance highlights a leap in control and power handling. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 26 Dec. 2025

Voter confidence in Democrats and Republicans regarding the handling of the economy is evenly split, according to recent polling, highlighting the challenge both parties face on a central matter ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. —Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 26 Dec. 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