understand
UK: ˌʌndəˈstænd | US: ˌʌndərˈstænd
vt. to grasp the meaning, nature, or significance of something
vt. to interpret or view something in a particular way
vt. to be sympathetically aware of someone’s feelings
The word "understand" originates from Old English understandan, combining "under" (beneath, among) and "stand" (to be upright). The logic is metaphorical: to "stand under" something implies being close enough to grasp its foundation or meaning. Over time, this evolved into the modern sense of comprehending or mentally "standing beneath" an idea to support or perceive it fully. The spatial metaphor reflects the transition from physical positioning to mental perception.
She struggled to understand the complex instructions.
Do you understand why this decision was made?
I understand how you feel about the situation.
The child quickly understood the rules of the game.
Scientists are working to understand the causes of the phenomenon.