handling

HAND-ling/ˈhændl̩ɪŋ/

Pluralhandlings (some meanings)

5 meanings of handling

1
noununcountable
The act of touching, holding, or controlling something with your hands.
Like the careful way you carry a full cup of water so it doesn't spill.
Careful handling of the glass bowl kept it from breaking.
The package needs gentle handling because the contents are fragile.
Similartreatment, care, management, use
Note
2
verb
Present participle of handle. Use this -ing form when the action is happening right now.
She is handling the situation calmly.
They are handling the new tools with care.
Note
3
noununcountable
The crime of buying, selling, or dealing in goods that you know were stolen.
He was charged with handling after police found stolen phones in his shop.
The gang made most of its money through handling, moving stolen cars across the border.
Similarfencing, receiving
4
nouncountable or uncountable
The personal way an artist uses a pencil or brush.
Like how you can tell someone's handwriting just by looking at it.
Her loose handling gives the watercolor a fresh, lively feel.
You can recognize the painter by the bold handling of the brush.
Similartouch, technique, brushwork, execution
Note

Less common meaning

5
nounobsoleteuncountable
The part of a machine or device used to work or control it.
Note

handling is a form of handle

handle, verb: To be in charge of a job, task, or group and keep it working. Full entry

Forms: handlehandles he/she/ithandling -ing formhandled past tense, past participle
Spelling: handle → handling: drop the e, add -ing

Practice

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Origins

Meanings 1, 3–5

From Old English handlung, made from "handle" plus "-ing."

Meaning 2

From the word "handle."