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

The agency stated that the price adjustments are being implemented to help cover additional handling costs and ensure a successful peak season, according to a news release. —Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 3 Oct. 2025

America’s busiest cargo handling port is seeking proposals from interested parties to participate in the pre-development of a new marine terminal, Pier 500. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 3 Oct. 2025

Colors look lively, contrast is solid, and gaming feels smooth thanks to responsive input handling. —PC Magazine, 3 Oct. 2025

At the same time, UKAEA will be upgrading its remote handling system to deliver the first phase of in-vessel decommissioning, where about 3,700 components will be removed from JET. —Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 2 Oct. 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