fathom
Translation
to understand, to comprehend, to gauge
Examples
I can't fathom why he left.
I can't fathom why he left.
It is hard to fathom the vastness of space.
It is hard to fathom the vastness of space.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to understand (sth.) I can't fathom his decision.
((why/how/what...)) to understand (why/how/what...) I can't fathom why he did it.
Similar Words
Synonyms: understand, comprehend, grasp, penetrate
Etymology
From Old English 'fæðm', meaning 'outstretched arms', a unit for measuring depth. The verb sense comes from the idea of 'getting to the bottom of' something.
Memory Tips
Imagine trying to measure the depth of the ocean with your arms (a fathom). It's so deep you can't 'fathom' it, or understand its depth.