understand

un-der-stand · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To perceive the intended meaning of words, a language, or a speaker.

  2. 2.

    To comprehend the significance, explanation, or cause of something.

  3. 3.

    To be sympathetically or knowledgeably aware of the character or nature of.

  4. 4.

    To infer something from information received; to take as agreed or certain.

  5. 5.

    To interpret or view something in a particular way.

Related words

Antonyms: confuse, misinterpret, misunderstand
See also: comprehend, know, misunderstand, realize
Synonyms: comprehend, fathom, follow, grasp, perceive

Etymology

From Old English "understandan," literally meaning "stand in the midst of" or "stand among," from "under" (among) + "standan" (to stand). The metaphorical sense of comprehension developed from the idea of standing close to something to examine it thoroughly.