fathom

[fath-uhm] / ˈfæð əm /

VERB

discern, understand

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appreciate comprehend divine figure out grasp penetrate pinpoint plumb unravel

STRONG

apprehend catch cognize dig estimate follow gauge get have interpret know measure perceive pierce probe recognize savvy sound

WEAK

get to the bottom

Antonyms

STRONGEST

misinterpret misunderstand

STRONG

estimate guess lose miss neglect not get

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"When you have players who play really well one week and the following two weeks don't, it's hard to fathom."

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

"Can't even begin to fathom or process this," wrote Watt.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

I want to know why he's so interested in death, and he looks almost as if he can't fathom the question.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

The idea of leaving this place behind is something he can’t fathom.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 17, 2025

I was still so numb from the night before, I found it hard to even fathom the fact of it.

From "Please Ignore Vera Dietz" by A.S. King