grasp
UK: ɡrɑːsp | US: ɡræsp
v. to seize and hold firmly with the hands
v. to understand something thoroughly
n. a firm hold or grip
n. the ability to comprehend or master something
The word "grasp" originates from Old English græppian, meaning "to seize or grip." It is related to the Proto-Germanic graipōną, which also conveys the idea of clutching or grabbing. Over time, the word evolved to include both physical and metaphorical meanings—holding something physically or understanding it mentally. The simplicity of its structure reflects its Germanic roots, with no clear prefix or suffix separation in modern English.
She tried to grasp the rope but missed.
He couldn’t grasp the complexity of the problem.
The toddler’s grasp on the toy was surprisingly strong.
Her grasp of mathematics impressed the teacher.
The concept was beyond my grasp at first.