handling

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)

Synonyms of handling

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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
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.
But the recording itself — which happened in eerie circumstances and nearly destroyed one of the trumpets — also underlines how our handling of antiquities has evolved dramatically in the intervening decades. — Sheena McKenzie, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026 In addition, produce is distributed through a complex supply chain, and these foods can become contaminated during irrigation, manufacturing, transportation and handling at a restaurant or at home. — Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026 Utilizing other green technologies The compact nature of the eSail provides high force efficiency, allowing the vessel to maintain open deck space for cargo handling while utilizing wind energy. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 9 Aug. 2026 The 360 weighs just under 80 lb (36 kg), and that makes for agile handling. — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 9 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for handling

Word History

First Known Use

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 11 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on handling

Nglish: Translation of handling for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about handling

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