handling

1 of 2

noun

han·​dling ˈhan-dᵊl-iŋ How to pronounce handling (audio)
ˈhan(d)-liŋ
Synonyms of handlingnext
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)

handling

2 of 2

present participle of handle entry 2

Synonyms of handling

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Noun

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Examples of handling in a Sentence

Noun These items require careful handling. There are additional charges for shipping and handling. The car's handling was smooth.
Recent Examples on the Web
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
Develop his handling, but do not take away his aggressiveness. — Matt Pyzdrowski, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026 The president has in your own polling, 36% job approval, 31% approving of his handling of the war. — NBC news, 6 Sep. 2026 Skilled workers also remain essential for planning, detailed work and handling situations the technology cannot manage on its own. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 6 Sep. 2026 Majorities also disapprove of his handling of the economy and immigration, issues that were central to Trump’s election in 2024. — Steven Sloan, Chicago Tribune, 6 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handling

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of handling was before the 12th century

Phrases Containing handling

Rhymes for handling

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Browse Nearby Words

handline
handling
handling room
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Cite this Entry

“Handling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handling. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on handling

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about handling

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