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

Both unequivocally condemn President Biden's handling of the industry. —Brady Dale, Axios, 5 Nov. 2024

Before Trump took the stage, Hamtramck Mayor Amer Ghalib and Dearborn Heights Bill Bazzi each spoke, a nod to the Trump campaign’s appeals to Arab American and Muslim voters frustrated with President Joe Biden’s handling of the war in Gaza. —Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press, 5 Nov. 2024

The country that likely has the most influence over Russia’s handling of its nuclear arsenal is China. —William M. Moon, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2024

Her remarks were a deliberate attempt to engage with voters who feel disillusioned by both political parties’ handling of international issues. —By Nik Popli/east Lansing, Mich., TIME, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing handling

• shipping and handling
• special handling