Grasp

/ɡræsp/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of grasping; a grip.
He had a firm grasp on the handle of the suitcase.
Understanding or comprehension.
She has a good grasp of the subject.
verb
To seize and hold firmly.
She grasped the rope tightly to prevent falling.
To understand something fully.
After studying the material, he finally grasped the concept.

Etymology

Middle English 'graspian', from Old English 'græppian' meaning to seize.

Common Phrases and Expressions

grasp at straws
To make a desperate attempt to save oneself or to find an answer.
get a grasp on
To gain understanding or insight into something.
within one's grasp
Within one’s ability to achieve or attain.

Related Words

seize
To take hold of suddenly and forcibly.
clutch
To grasp or hold tightly.

Slang Meanings

To get it.
Did you grasp the idea from the lecture?
To take control of.
He really grasped the situation with confidence.