əˈɡɹiːmənt æp.ɹɪˈhɛn.ʃən æp.ɹiˈhɛn.ʃən ˈɪntəlɛkt ˈɹiːzən ˈsæ.vi ˈsɪm.pəθ.i ʌndəˈstandɪŋ ˌʌndɚˈstændɪŋ ʌndəˈstandɪŋ ˌʌndɚˈstændɪŋ characterized by understanding based on comprehension and discernment and empathy an understanding friend the capacity for rational thought or inference or discrimination we are told that man is endowed with reason and capable of distinguishing good from evil the cognitive condition of someone who understands he has virtually no understanding of social cause and effect an inclination to support or be loyal to or to agree with an opinion his sympathies were always with the underdog I knew I could count on his understanding the statement (oral or written) of an exchange of promises they had an agreement that they would not interfere in each other's business there was an understanding between management and the workers