Definition of "understanding" in English

noun

1. (uncountable) The act of one that understands or comprehends; the mental process of discernment of meaning.

   • There are certain things that defy human understanding.

2. (countable) Reason or intelligence; ability to grasp the full meaning of knowledge; ability to infer.

   • She has a solid understanding of particle physics.

3. (countable) Opinion, judgement, or outlook.

   • According to my understanding, the situation is quite perilous. I wonder if you see it this way, too.

4. (countable) An agreement of minds; harmony; something mutually understood or agreed upon.

5. (uncountable) Sympathy.

   • He showed much understanding for my problems when he heard about my past.

adjective

1. Showing compassion, tolerance, and forbearance; sympathetically aware.

2. (dated) Knowing; skilful.

verb

1. present participle and gerund of understand