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

Furthermore, MedPage Today reported last month that at the annual meeting of the American Medical Association delegates urged the FDA to improve their handling of peptides. — Joshua P. Cohen, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026

Indeed, Trump’s approval ratings on his handling of the economy have slumped alongside his numbers on the Iran war, with support slipping even among Republicans. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 2 Aug. 2026

Their sergeant was also disciplined for her handling of the matter. — Kelsy Mittauer, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026

Customers also receive priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Aug. 2026

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