Dictionary entries for 'understand'

Synonyms

un·der·stand (ŭńdər-stănd́)

[Middle English understanden, from Old English understandan, under-, under-, + standan, to stand.]

verb: -stood (-stŏŏd́), -stand·ing, -stands.

To perceive and comprehend the nature and significance of; grasp. See synonyms at apprehend
To know thoroughly by close contact or long experience with: That teacher understands children.
1. To grasp or comprehend the meaning intended or expressed by (another): They have trouble with English, but I can understand them.
2. To comprehend the language, sounds, form, or symbols of.
To know and be tolerant or sympathetic toward: I can understand your point of view even though I disagree with it.
To learn indirectly, as by hearsay: I understand his departure was unexpected.
To infer: Am I to understand you are staying the night?
To accept (something) as an agreed fact: It is understood that the fee will be 50 dollars.
To supply or add (words or a meaning, for example) mentally.

1. To have understanding, knowledge, or comprehension.
2. To have sympathy or tolerance.
To learn something indirectly or secondhand; gather.