1 [with object] perceive the intended meaning of (words, a language, or speaker):he didn’t understand a word I saidhe could usually make himself understood [with clause]:she understood what he was saying
perceive the significance, explanation, or cause of (something):she didn’t really understand the situation [with clause]:he couldn’t understand why we burst out laughing [no object]:you don’t understand—she has left me
be sympathetically or knowledgeably aware of the character or nature of:Picasso understood color [with clause]:I understand how you feel
interpret or view (something) in a particular way:as the term is usually understood, legislation refers to regulations and directives
2 [with clause] infer something from information received (often used as a polite formula in conversation):I understand you’re at art school [with object]:as I understood it, she was flying back to New Zealand tomorrow
[with object] regard (a missing word, phrase, or idea) as present; supply mentally:“present company excepted” is always understood when sweeping generalizations are being made
[with object] assume to be the case; take for granted:he liked to play the field—that was understood
