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grasping

adjective
grasp·​ing | \ ˈgra-spiÅ‹ How to pronounce grasping (audio) \

Definition of grasping

: desiring material possessions urgently and excessively and often to the point of ruthlessness Her grasping children fought over her property when she died.
Other Words from grasping Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about grasping

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Other Words from grasping

graspingly \ ˈgra-​spiÅ‹-​lÄ“ How to pronounce graspingly (audio) \ adverb
graspingness noun

Choose the Right Synonym for grasping

covetous, greedy, acquisitive, grasping, avaricious mean having or showing a strong desire for especially material possessions. covetous implies inordinate desire often for another's possessions. covetous of his brother's country estate greedy stresses lack of restraint and often of discrimination in desire. greedy for status symbols acquisitive implies both eagerness to possess and ability to acquire and keep. an eagerly acquisitive mind grasping adds to covetous and greedy an implication of selfishness and often suggests unfair or ruthless means. a hard grasping trader who cheated the natives avaricious implies obsessive acquisitiveness especially of money and strongly suggests stinginess. an avaricious miser

Examples of grasping in a Sentence

Her grasping children fought over her property when she died. a grasping person who would rather buy a car he didn't need than give a dime to charity

First Known Use of grasping

1710, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for grasping

see grasp entry 1

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More Definitions for grasping

grasping

adjective
How to pronounce grasping (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of grasping

: wanting money and possessions too much

See the full definition for grasping in the English Language Learners Dictionary

grasping

adjective
grasp·​ing | \ ˈgra-spiÅ‹ How to pronounce grasping (audio) \

Kids Definition of grasping

: greedy sense 1

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More from Merriam-Webster on grasping

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for grasping

Spanish Central: Translation of grasping

Nglish: Translation of grasping for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of grasping for Arabic Speakers

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