gripped; gripping
1
: to seize or hold firmly
gripped the door handle
2
: to hold the interest of strongly
a story that grips the reader
gripper
noun
1
a
: a strong or tenacious grasp
had a good grip on the tennis racket
b
: strength in gripping
c
: manner or style of gripping
the balanced grip of an expert golfer
2
a
: a firm tenacious hold typically giving control or dominating influence
has the country in his grip
The country is in the grip of a recession.
b
: power of understanding : mental grasp
can't seem to get a grip on [=gain a good understanding of] calculus
… I'm curious to see if preteens have a grip on this fairly sophisticated concept.—John Hoffman
c
: control of one's thoughts and emotions
—used in the phrases get a grip (on oneself) and lose one's grip
… until he actually fixes his turnover concerns, the fanbase will continue to be upset. In reality, though, fans need to get a grip.—Nick Faria
I've never seen him so bewildered. He's losing his grip.
3
: a part or device for gripping
4
: a part by which something is grasped
especially
: handle
5
: suitcase
6
a
: a stage worker who handles scenery, properties, or lights : stagehand
b
: a technician on a movie or television set who handles and maintains equipment (such as cameras and their dollies and cranes)
see also:
get a grip on
3 of 3phrase
: to gain a good understanding of
He can't seem to get a grip on calculus.
Cite this Entry
“Grip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grip. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.
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