handling

1 of 2

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)

handling

2 of 2

present participle of handle entry 2

Synonyms of handling

Noun

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

Examples of handling in a Sentence

Noun

These items require careful handling.

There are additional charges for shipping and handling.

The car's handling was smooth.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Madigan’s downfall began with women angered by his handling of #MeToo incidents involving his campaign and government staff in 2017 and 2018. — Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune, 7 Nov. 2026

Raman pledged during her campaign to replace McDonnell, criticizing his handling of protests against federal immigration enforcement and arguing that his leadership had damaged trust in the department, particularly among immigrant communities. — Teresa Liu, Daily News, 7 Nov. 2026

In my experience, a vehicle that tracks straight, has even tire wear, and shows no handling issues may not need another alignment simply because of a preliminary screening result. — John Paul Senior Manager Public Affairs and Traffic Safety Aaa Northeast, Hartford Courant, 7 Nov. 2026

The investigations will examine authorities' oversight of the bank, their handling of its failure and the placement of public funds in the lender. — Arkansas Online, 6 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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

Phrases Containing handling

• shipping and handling
• special handling

Rhymes for handling

• candling
• mishandling