1
as in control
the ability to direct the course of something
for a time it looked like most of Europe would be within Hitler's grasp
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in grip
the act or manner of holding
during the roller coaster ride, my date clutched my arm with a deathlike grasp
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in understanding
the knowledge gained from the process of coming to know or understand something
I think I finally have a grasp of Spanish grammar
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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
as in to hug
to put one's arms around and press tightly
the departing soldier grasped his children a little closer than usual
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in to hold
to reach for and take hold of by embracing with the fingers or arms
the attendant grasped my arm and steered me towards the door
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in to know
to have a clear idea of
the emergency operator finally grasped what he was trying to tell her
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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
Kalhan Rosenblatt, NBC news, 17 May 2025
The Knicks literally took this series from them, starting when Mikal Bridges ripped the ball out of Brown’s grasp to end Game 1 and stuffed Tatum to punctuate Game 2.
—Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 15 May 2025
Kale Williams, Axios, 16 May 2025
Right Now By Jenna Ryu Stand with your feet hip-width apart and grasp the kettlebell by the top of the handle with both hands, holding your arms straight out in front of you.
—Caroline Tien, SELF, 16 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for grasp
Noun
Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation over the last week that could give the federal government a tighter grasp on some tech platforms, while easing up government scrutiny on artificial intelligence.
—Kalhan Rosenblatt, NBC news, 17 May 2025
The Knicks literally took this series from them, starting when Mikal Bridges ripped the ball out of Brown’s grasp to end Game 1 and stuffed Tatum to punctuate Game 2.
—Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 15 May 2025
Verb
Looking down into the crater, with steam still rising from the bottom, my mind struggled to grasp that not that long ago, there had been a whole mountain where now there was just wind and clouds.
—Kale Williams, Axios, 16 May 2025
Right Now By Jenna Ryu Stand with your feet hip-width apart and grasp the kettlebell by the top of the handle with both hands, holding your arms straight out in front of you.
—Caroline Tien, SELF, 16 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for grasp
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grasp
Noun
-
The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
6 June 2025
-
Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
5 June 2025
Noun
-
The three main causes of hydroplaning are: Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
3 June 2025
-
Here other drivers complained about a lack of grip and sliding in the colder temperatures.—
Madeline Coleman,
New York Times,
2 June 2025
Noun
-
Brands need to develop a deeper understanding of the media consumption habits and cultural nuances of diverse audiences to connect authentically and build lasting relationships.—
Julie Kratz,
Forbes.com,
1 June 2025
-
Jenkins was the organizer of this unusual day that brought district attorneys from around the state inside of San Quentin to gain a better understanding of how the California Model works, and why even tough-on-crime district attorneys should support transforming our prisons.—
Anita Chabria,
Los Angeles Times,
31 May 2025
Verb
-
For a long time, a very evolved, smart person that makes poor choices sometimes can still understand what that means.—
Daniel D'Addario,
Variety,
30 May 2025
-
The Times spoke to both sides, as well as multiple experts to better understand the high-stakes litigation, which faces obstacles but could shake up California’s home insurance industry.—
Hailey Branson-Potts,
Los Angeles Times,
30 May 2025
Verb
-
The extra weight is believed to help calm the nervous system, mimicking the feeling of being hugged and promoting a sense of security and relaxation.—
Nora Colomer
may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom.,
FOXNews.com,
21 May 2025
-
After the Mass, while meeting with dignitaries and world faith leaders, the pope broke protocol to hug his brother.—
Angie Leventis Lourgos,
Chicago Tribune,
21 May 2025
Verb
-
Manufacturing has been on the decline in the United States, with only 8% of American workers holding jobs in that sector as of earlier this year compared to roughly 26% in 1970, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, And a lot has changed since 1970.—
Lisa Eadicicco,
CNN Money,
28 May 2025
-
Other Watch Auctions As a point of reference, the Geneva Watch Auction: XXI, held May 10 and 11 in Switzerland, was a distinguished event with 188 lots sold, totaling $52,196,552.—
Nancy Olson,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2025
Verb
-
Forget iOS 19: Apple To Launch iPhone 17 With Radically Different Software, Report Says Software in the iPhone knows your location and is able to spot the satellites passing overhead to guide you where to point.—
David Phelan,
Forbes.com,
31 May 2025
-
They are also known as direct-to-participant trials or virtual studies.1 DCTs may offer several benefits, including convenience for participants.—
Carrie Madormo,
Health,
31 May 2025
Noun
-
Phoebe Merrick says living in New Zealand has given her a greater appreciation of work-life balance.—
Jennifer Liu
Zachary Green,
CNBC,
5 June 2025
-
Environmental benefits also remain a key motivator, along with a growing appreciation for the smooth, quiet driving experience and the high-tech features found in many modern EVs.—
Melanie Marshall,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
5 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Grasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grasp. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share