grasp 1 of 2

Definition of graspnext

grasp

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to understand
to have a practical understanding of he just doesn't grasp how important it is that he call when he'll be late

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
4

Synonym Chooser

How is the word grasp different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of grasp are clutch, grab, seize, snatch, and take. While all these words mean "to get hold of by or as if by catching up with the hand," grasp stresses a laying hold so as to have firmly in possession.

grasp the handle and pull

When might clutch be a better fit than grasp?

The synonyms clutch and grasp are sometimes interchangeable, but clutch suggests avidity or anxiety in seizing or grasping and may imply less success in holding.

clutching her purse

How are the words grab and snatch related as synonyms of grasp?

Grab implies more roughness or rudeness than snatch.

grabbed roughly by the arm

When is it sensible to use seize instead of grasp?

While in some cases nearly identical to grasp, seize implies a sudden and forcible movement in getting hold of something tangible or an apprehending of something fleeting or elusive when intangible.

seized the suspect

How do snatch and seize relate to one another, in the sense of grasp?

Snatch suggests more suddenness or quickness but less force than seize.

snatched a doughnut and ran

When could take be used to replace grasp?

While the synonyms take and grasp are close in meaning, take is a general term applicable to any manner of getting something into one's possession or control.

take some salad from the bowl

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of grasp
Noun
Speaking of immersive, MacKay and Turner only acquired an elementary grasp of the mechanics of fishing, but that’s by design. Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 18 June 2026 Trump’s grasp on the concept of ceremonial power is questionable. Joshua Hunt, Vanity Fair, 17 June 2026
Verb
If all goes well, LINK will extend three rather alarming looking robotic arms that will grasp these fixtures. David Szondy june 18, New Atlas, 18 June 2026 Our daughter enjoys the tactile element of this rug, running her fingers through the fibers of the rug and trying to grasp onto the threads. Briana Feigon, Architectural Digest, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for grasp
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grasp
Noun
  • Residents of the peninsula are often reluctant to speak out publicly given the control Russia enforces on the ground.
    Zahra Ullah, CNN Money, 26 June 2026
  • At-home routines give you more control over how aggressively your nails are filed and how gently polish is removed.
    Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • Anderson’s collection was about formality losing its grip — tuxedos loosened, denim ripped, sequins flashing, disco-ball boots stepping through a house built on old-world taste.
    ABC News, ABC News, 24 June 2026
  • Dead hangs build grip strength, shoulder mobility, and core endurance, which can support posture, daily function, and healthy aging.
    Christa Sgobba, Health, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Sina Azodi, director of George Washington University’s Middle East studies program, noted Israel’s attacks on Lebanon are an issue for Iran while the US could possibly interpret Tehran claiming to close the Strait of Hormuz as a violation of the memorandum of understanding.
    Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 21 June 2026
  • In fact, some are doing little to hide their skepticism – and, in some cases, outright frustration – with the memorandum of understanding, which White House officials hope to spin into a more lasting peace agreement and nuclear accord.
    Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • These reports present your income and spending habits with clean, easy-to-understand visualizations.
    Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • Raised in Rio de Janeiro, Burle Marx understood the country’s abundance as both subject and material.
    Spencer Elliott, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • The body-hugging jean aligns with the viral phenomenon centered on maximizing physical attractiveness through deliberate changes to appearance, grooming, fitness, style and medical procedures.
    Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 24 June 2026
  • So the glasses hug your face without adding pressure to the nasal bridge or behind the ears.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • Those arrested for criminal conduct must be held accountable in our court system.
    Boston Herald editorial staff, Boston Herald, 24 June 2026
  • The toys clanked, the players held their breath and onlookers whispered strategies on the sidelines – until a winner was crowned.
    Chris Lau, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • It is known to cause neurological problems, convulsions and comas, with children particularly at risk.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Martin, 36, best known for his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was selected in August as one of the top-50 players in franchise history as part of the team’s 50th anniversary celebration.
    HANNAH FINGERHUT, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • My years in medicine reinforced my appreciation for this country.
    Ben Carson, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026
  • The musical moment of appreciation between the players and patrons has echoed through the stadiums of Los Angeles and Seattle.
    Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 26 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Grasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grasp. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on grasp

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster