/ ˌkɒmprɪˈhend; NAmE ˌkɑːm-/ verb
(often used in negative sentences) ( formal ) to understand sth fully :
[ vn ]
The infinite distances of space are too great for the human mind to comprehend.
[ v wh- ]
She could not comprehend how someone would risk people's lives in that way.
[ v ]
He stood staring at the dead body, unable to comprehend.
➡ note at understand [also v that ]
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French comprehender , or Latin comprehendere , from com- together + prehendere grasp.