Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

grasp for

phrasal verb

Definition of grasp for

: to try in a desperate or awkward way to get (something)
  • His sudden decision to quit the race has left his supporters grasping for explanations.
  • grasping for attention

Word by Word Definitions

grasp play

  1. : to make the motion of seizing : clutch

  2. : to take or seize eagerly

  3. : to clasp or embrace especially with the fingers or arms

  1. : handle

  2. : embrace

  3. : hold, control

See the full definition of grasp

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up grasp for? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games