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

But one of the sisters in particular has since expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the matter. —Paul Elie, New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2026

The next funding fight comes fresh off a revolt from moderate Republicans over rising health care costs, and as the conflict with Venezuela and frustration with the Justice Department's handling of the rollout of the Epstein files come to a head. —Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 5 Jan. 2026

Yet in public polling, Americans were giving them a thumbs down on his handling of the economy. —Dana Taylor, USA Today, 5 Jan. 2026

Stefanski was criticized during the season for his early handling of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. —Mark Anderson, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 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