verb

dealt

to deal with, to handle, to distribute

She dealt with the complaint very well.

She dealt with the complaint very well.

Our company deals in computer software.

Our company deals in computer software.

He dealt the cards to each player.

He dealt the cards to each player.

((with sth./sb.)) to handle a problem or person. You must learn to deal with stress.

((in sth.)) to buy and sell particular goods. The company deals in rare books.

handle, manage, cope with, distribute

From Old English 'dǣlan', meaning 'to divide, distribute'. This relates to 'dealing with' a problem by breaking it down, or 'dealing' goods.

Imagine a card dealer who has to 'deal' the cards (distribute) and also 'deal with' any problems during the game (handle).

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.