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

To support handling and stability, the vehicle features independent suspension at both the front and rear, which is expected to improve comfort over uneven road surfaces and maintain control during high-speed driving. —Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 23 Nov. 2025

The two congressional leaders then sparred over the handling of the Epstein legislation. —Steven T. Dennis, Fortune, 23 Nov. 2025

In these situations, packing cubes aren’t just a handy organization tool or space-saving hack—they’re an essential safeguard for preventing your clothes from getting lost on the tarmac and in baggage handling areas. —Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 22 Nov. 2025

But Democrats are also facing some internal problems over the handling of the shutdown. —Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 22 Nov. 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