Groping

/ˈɡroʊpɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of reaching for someone or something with uncertainty or in a sexual manner.
His groping made her very uneasy during the concert.
verb
To search for something by feeling with the hands in a clumsy or uncertain way.
He was groping in the dark for his phone.
To touch or stroke someone in a sexual way without their consent.
She felt uncomfortable when he started groping her at the party.

Etymology

Middle English 'gropen', from Old English 'grōpian', which means to grope.

Common Phrases and Expressions

groping in the dark:
Trying to make a decision or find a solution without clear information.
groping for answers:
Struggling to find a solution or understand something.
groping through a problem:
Working through difficulties in an uncertain manner.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Inappropriate physical contact.
That guy at the bar was totally groping her.
A clumsy or forced physical advance.
He was groping in a way that made everyone uncomfortable.