I. ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ noun
Date: before 12th century
1. : a mental grasp : comprehension
2.
a. : the power of comprehending ; especially : the capacity to apprehend general relations of particulars
b. : the power to make experience intelligible by applying concepts and categories
3.
a. : friendly or harmonious relationship
b. : an agreement of opinion or feeling : adjustment of differences
c. : a mutual agreement not formally entered into but in some degree binding on each side
4. : explanation , interpretation
5. : sympathy 3a
II. adjective
Date: 13th century
1. archaic : knowing , intelligent
2. : endowed with understanding : tolerant , sympathetic
an understanding supervisor
• un·der·stand·ing·ly -ˈstan-diŋ-lē adverb