handling

UK: ˈhændlɪŋ | US: ˈhændlɪŋ

Definition
  1. n. the act of managing, controlling, or dealing with something

  2. n. the way something is handled or operated

  3. vt. present participle of "handle" (to touch, hold, or manage with the hands)

Structure
handl <hand<body part>ing <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "handling" derives from the Old English "handlian," meaning "to touch or manage with the hands." The root "hand" traces back to Proto-Germanic *handuz, referring to the physical hand. The suffix "-ing" forms a noun indicating an action or process. Over time, "handling" (later simplified to "handling") expanded beyond literal touch to include broader concepts of management and control, reflecting the hand's symbolic role in skill and agency.

Examples
  1. Proper handling of fragile items prevents damage during shipping.

  2. The car's smooth handling makes it ideal for city driving.

  3. She has experience handling customer complaints efficiently.

  4. The museum restricts handling of ancient artifacts to preserve them.

  5. His handling of the crisis earned praise from his colleagues.