1perceive the intended meaning of (words, a language, or a speaker):he didn’t understand a word I saidhe could usually make himself understood [with clause]:she understood what he was saying
perceive the significance, explanation, or cause of:she didn’t really understand the situation [with clause]:he couldn’t understand why we burst out laughing
2interpret or view (something) in a particular way:as the term is usually understood, legislation refers to regulations and directives
[with clause] infer something from information received (often used as a polite formula in conversation):I understand you’re at art school [with object]:as I understood it, she was flying back to the States tomorrow
regard (a missing word, phrase, or idea) as present:‘present company excepted’ is always understood when sweeping generalizations are being made
[with clause] assume to be the case; take for granted:he liked to play the field, that was understood
3be sympathetically or knowledgeably aware of the character or nature of:Picasso understood colour [with clause]:I understand how you feel
