fathom
Translation
to understand, to comprehend, to measure the depth of
Examples
I can't fathom why he would do that.
I can't understand why he would do that.
They tried to fathom the depths of the ocean.
They tried to measure the depth of the ocean.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to understand or measure (sth.) I can't fathom his reasons.
Similar Words
Synonyms: understand, comprehend, grasp
Etymology
From Old English 'fæðm' (outstretched arms, a unit of depth). The verb sense 'to understand' evolved from the idea of measuring depth.
Memory Tips
Imagine trying to measure a deep concept with your arms ('fathom'). If you can't reach the bottom, you can't 'fathom' it.