comprehension
UK: ˌkɒmprɪˈhenʃn | US: ˌkɑːmprɪˈhenʃn
n. the ability to understand something
n. the act of grasping the meaning or significance of something
n. (formal) inclusion or coverage within a broader scope
Derived from Latin comprehendere ("to grasp together"), combining com- (intensive prefix) and prehendere ("to seize"). The morpheme prehen evolved from prehendere, retaining the core idea of "grasping," while -sion nominalized the verb into a state or action. The word originally implied physical grasping (e.g., capturing) but shifted metaphorically to mental "grasping" (understanding) by the 16th century.
Her comprehension of advanced physics impressed the professors.
The test measures reading comprehension skills.
The term "literature" includes poetry, drama, and fiction in its broadest comprehension.
He nodded in comprehension as the explanation unfolded.
The training improved employees' comprehension of safety protocols.