comprehends; comprehended; comprehending
somewhat formal
: to understand (something, such as a difficult or complex subject)
He is able to fully comprehend [=understand completely] what is happening and react appropriately.
—often used in negative statementsThey are unable to comprehend what had happened.
We can scarcely comprehend how it all ended.
I find his attitude impossible/difficult to comprehend.
Cite this Entry
“Comprehend.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/comprehend. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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