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

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

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

Just 38% of adults approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, according to a July poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs. —Josh Boak, Chicago Tribune, 2 Aug. 2025

This can alter car handling significantly around the complex aerodynamics of these machines. —Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2025

President Donald Trump's Department of Education opened a federal Title IX investigation into San Jose State in February over the situation involving Fleming and the university's handling of the trans athlete. —Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 1 Aug. 2025

The votes come as growing shares of Democrats have expressed opposition to the Israeli government and its handling of the war in Gaza. —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 31 July 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