n. & adj.
n. 1 a the ability to understand or think; intelligence. b the power of apprehension; the power of abstract thought. 2 an individual's perception or judgement of a situation etc. 3 an agreement; a thing agreed upon, esp. informally (had an understanding with the rival company; consented only on this understanding). 4 harmony in opinion or feeling (disturbed the good understanding between them). 5 sympathetic awareness or tolerance.
adj. 1 having understanding or insight or good judgement. 2 sympathetic to others' feelings. understandingly adv.
[ OE (as UNDERSTAND) ]