un·der·stand·ing
ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ 
1
: a mental grasp : comprehension
2
a
: the power of comprehending
especially
: the capacity to apprehend general relations of particulars
b
: the power to make experience intelligible by applying concepts and categories
3
a
: a mutual agreement not formally entered into but in some degree binding on each side
b
: friendly or harmonious relationship
c
: an agreement of opinion or feeling : adjustment of differences
1
: endowed with understanding : tolerant, sympathetic
an understanding supervisor
2
archaic
: knowing, intelligent
Examples of understanding in a Sentence
Noun
He has a thorough understanding of the subject.
She has a basic understanding of the process.
I hope to get a clearer understanding of the issues involved.
He seems to have little understanding of our situation.
We have an understanding that whoever cooks doesn't have to do the dishes.
She treats them with kindness and understanding.
a relationship based on mutual understanding
Adjective
a kind and understanding teacher who often helps troubled students
Recent Examples on the Web
James Bickerton, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
Using fractional diffusion theory, the research deepens understanding of transient charging behaviors in complex materials, which is key to designing high-performance components used for advanced engineering electrochemical systems in general.
—Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2025
Thanks to Comedy Central and South Park fans for being so understanding.
—Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 25 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understanding
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Noun
My understanding is your plan to launch.
—James Bickerton, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
Using fractional diffusion theory, the research deepens understanding of transient charging behaviors in complex materials, which is key to designing high-performance components used for advanced engineering electrochemical systems in general.
—Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
Chastain, who is the lead star and an executive producer of the series, was not especially understanding.
—Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2025
Thanks to Comedy Central and South Park fans for being so understanding.
—Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 25 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for understanding
Cite this Entry
“Understanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understanding. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
understanding
1 of 2 noun
un·der·stand·ing
ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ
1
: knowledge and ability to judge : intelligence
a person of understanding
2
a
: agreement of opinion or feeling
b
: something agreed to by both sides and entered into silently or without ceremony
an understanding between two nations over trade
3
: one's belief about something based upon what is known
4
: sympathy
understanding
2 of 2 adjective
: having or showing understanding : tolerant, sympathetic
you seem very understanding
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share