1. Get the meaning of something
   "Do you comprehend the meaning of this letter?";
   - grok [N. Amer, informal], get the picture [informal], savvy, dig [informal], grasp, compass, apprehend
    
2. To become aware of through the senses
   "I could comprehend the ship coming over the horizon";
   - perceive
    
3. Include in scope; include as part of something broader; have as one's sphere or territory
   "The course comprehends both theoretical and practical aspects";
   - embrace, encompass, cover

Derived forms: comprehends, comprehending, comprehended

Type of: discover, find out, get a line [informal], get wind, get word, hear, include, learn, pick up, see, understand