1. To perceive and comprehend the nature and significance of; grasp. See synonyms at apprehend. 2. To know thoroughly by close contact or long experience with: That teacher understands children.3a. To grasp or comprehend the meaning intended or expressed by (another): They have trouble with English, but I can understand them.b. To comprehend the language, sounds, form, or symbols of. 4. To know and be tolerant or sympathetic toward: I can understand your point of view even though I disagree with it.5. To learn indirectly, as by hearsay: I understand his departure was unexpected.6. To infer: Am I to understand you are staying the night?7. To accept (something) as an agreed fact: It is understood that the fee will be 50 dollars.8. To supply or add (words or a meaning, for example) mentally.
INTRANSITIVE VERB:
1a. To have understanding, knowledge, or comprehension. b. To have sympathy or tolerance. 2. To learn something indirectly or secondhand; gather.
ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English understanden, from Old English understandan : under-, under- + standan, to stand; see st- in Appendix I.
n
d
r-st
nd
d
- in Appendix I.
