grasp

¹grasp

verb \ˈgrasp\

Definition of GRASP

intransitive verb

: to make the motion of seizing : clutch

transitive verb

1

: to take or seize eagerly

2

: to clasp or embrace especially with the fingers or arms

3

: to lay hold of with the mind : comprehend

— grasp·able \ˈgras-pə-bəl\ adjective

— grasp·er noun

— grasp at straws

: to reach for or try anything in desperation

— grasp the nettle

: to act boldly

Examples of GRASP

1. I grasped the end of the rope and pulled as hard as I could.
2. I grasped the rope by its end.
3. His arthritis is so bad he can barely grasp a pencil.

Origin of GRASP

Middle English graspen

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to GRASP

Synonyms: comprehend, know, understand

Antonyms: miss

Related Words: appreciate, apprehend, cognize, fathom, follow, ken [chiefly Scottish], perceive, savvy; have, possess; catch on (to), pick up

Near Antonyms: misapprehend, misconceive, misinterpret, misknow, misperceive, misunderstand

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at take

Rhymes with GRASP

asp, clasp, gasp, hasp, rasp