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

• administration
• care
• charge
• conduct
• control
• direction
• governance
• government
• guidance
• intendance
• management
• operation
• oversight
• presidency
• regulation
• running
• stewardship
• superintendence
• superintendency
• supervision

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

In terms of voter approval of Trump's handling of the economy, 42 percent approve, with 24 percent strongly approving and 18 percent somewhat approving, while 55 percent disapprove, 42 percent strongly and 13 percent somewhat. —Mohammed Soliman, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Apr. 2025

Also in disapproval of Trump's handling of the economy were 88% of Democratic respondents, 59% of independents and 17% of Republicans. —Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2025

Trump's 39% approval rating for his handling of the economy is his worst score ever, including during his first term. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 29 Apr. 2025

Because of those direct impacts, regulations around the globe are quickly starting to catch up: • Canada: Bill C-27 outlines an AI and Data Act for responsible data handling. —Anthony Green, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 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