understand (v.)

  1. know and comprehend the nature or meaning of; She did not understand her husband; I understand what she means'

  2. perceive (an idea or situation) mentally; Now I see!; I just cant see your point; Does she realize how important this decision is?; I dont understand the idea

    [ Syn: realize , realise , see ]

  3. make sense of a language; She understands French; Can you read Greek?

    [ Syn: read , interpret , translate ]

  4. believe to be the case; I understand you have no previous experience?

    [ Syn: infer ]

  5. be understanding of; You dont need to explain--I understand!

    [ Syn: sympathize , sympathise , empathize , empathise ]

The dictionary is based on the WordNet Electronic Lexical Database.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2011 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.