grappling

noun

grap·​pling ˈgra-p(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce grappling (audio)
Synonyms of grapplingnext

Examples of grappling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The art of grappling consists of throws, trips, sweeps, clinches, ground fighting, submission holds and takedowns. Steve Gorches, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2026 Even the world’s record-breaking athletes are not immune to the lows of grappling with burnout and mental health challenges. Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 7 Feb. 2026 In the production, Hayes plays Elliott, a writer grappling with creative paralysis who retreats to a remote cabin, only to find the line between imagination and reality dangerously blurred. Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 1 Feb. 2026 Riz Ahmed stars in this moving indie drama as Ruben, a heavy metal drummer grappling with sudden hearing loss. Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for grappling

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of grappling was in 1582

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Cite this Entry

“Grappling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grappling. Accessed 20 Feb. 2026.

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