1. (v. t.) To seize and hold by clasping or embracing with the fingers or arms; to catch to take possession of.

2. (v. t.) To lay hold of with the mind; to become thoroughly acquainted or conversant with; to comprehend.

3. (v. i.) To effect a grasp; to make the motion of grasping; to clutch; to struggle; to strive.

4. (n.) A gripe or seizure of the hand; a seizure by embrace, or enfolding in the arms.

5. (n.) Reach of the arms; hence, the power of seizing and holding; as, it was beyond his grasp.

6. (n.) Forcible possession; hold.

7. (n.) Wide-reaching power of intellect to comprehend subjects and hold them under survey.

8. (n.) The handle of a sword or of an oar.