Definition of: grasp

(grasp, gräsp) v.t.
1. To lay hold of with or as with the hand; grip.
2. To seize greedily or eagerly; snatch.
3. To take hold of with the mind; understand.
—v.i.
4. To make grasping motions.
—to grasp at
1. To try to seize.
2. To clutch at eagerly or desperately: to grasp at straws.
—noun
1. The act of seizing or attempting to lay hold of something, as with the hand.
2. The ability to seize and hold; possession taken and kept by force.
3. Power of comprehension, or the exercise of this power. [ME graspen, metathetic var. of grapsen <LG]
—grasp′er noun Synonyms (verb): catch, clasp, clutch, comprehend, grab, grapple, grip, gripe, hold, seize, snatch, understand. See CATCH, EMBRACE¹. Antonyms: abandon, fail, loose, lose, miss, release, relinquish.