1
as in hands
the ability to direct the course of something
for a time it looked like most of Europe would be within Hitler's grasp
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Relevance
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2
as in grips
the act or manner of holding
during the roller coaster ride, my date clutched my arm with a deathlike grasp
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3
as in understandings
the knowledge gained from the process of coming to know or understand something
I think I finally have a grasp of Spanish grammar
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1
as in understands
to have a practical understanding of
he just doesn't grasp how important it is that he call when he'll be late
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2
as in clasps
to put one's arms around and press tightly
the departing soldier grasped his children a little closer than usual
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3
as in holds
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
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4
as in knows
to have a clear idea of
the emergency operator finally grasped what he was trying to tell her
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Cite this Entry
“Grasps.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grasps. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.
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