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tr.v. com·pre·hend·ed, com·pre·hend·ing, com·pre·hends 1. To take in the meaning, nature, or importance of; grasp. See Synonyms at understand. 2. To have as part of something larger; encompass or include. See Synonyms at include. [Middle English comprehenden, from Latin comprehendere : com-, com- + prehendere, to grasp; see ghend- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] com′pre·hendi·ble adj. com′pre·hending·ly adv. |
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