Comprehend Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

comprehend

/ˌkɑːmprɪˈhɛnd/

verb

comprehends;

comprehended;

comprehending

comprehends;

comprehended;

comprehending

Britannica Dictionary definition of COMPREHEND

[+ object]

somewhat formal

:

to understand (something, such as a difficult or complex subject)

• He is able to fully comprehend [=understand completely] what is happening and react appropriately.

— often used in negative statements

• They are unable to comprehend what had happened.
• We can scarcely comprehend how it all ended.
• I find his attitude impossible/difficult to comprehend.