grasp at straws

phrase

: to reach for or try anything in desperation

Word History

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grasp at straws was in 1792

Rhymes for grasp at straws

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Browse Nearby Words

grasp at
grasp at straws
grasper
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Cite this Entry

“Grasp at straws.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grasp%20at%20straws. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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