grasping
UK: ˈɡrɑːspɪŋ | US: ˈɡræspɪŋ
adj. 1. (of a person) excessively eager to acquire things, especially money; greedy.
adj. 2. (of a hand or action) seizing or holding firmly.
v. (present participle of grasp) 1. to take hold of something firmly.
The word grasping derives from the verb grasp, which originated from Middle English graspen, meaning "to reach or seize." This, in turn, traces back to Old English græppian ("to grip") and Proto-Germanic grapjaną, reflecting the physical action of clutching. The suffix -ing transforms it into an adjective or present participle, extending its meaning to describe both literal holding and metaphorical greed (as if "clutching" at possessions).
The grasping vines clung tightly to the stone wall.
She gave him a grasping look, eyeing the gold necklace.
His grasping nature made him unpopular among his peers.
The child’s grasping fingers reached for the toy.
Critics accused the corporation of being grasping and exploitative.