adj Uncommon

grasping

GRAHS-pihng

Grasping (adj) means Greedy and overly eager for money or possessions. Example: “He had a reputation as a grasping landlord who always wanted more rent.”

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adj

Greedy and overly eager for money or possessions.

"He had a reputation as a grasping landlord who always wanted more rent."

How to use grasping

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes someone who is greedy, always reaching for more money or power.

Easily confused with

grasp →

Common pairings

a grasping person grasping and greedy

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

more grasping comparative, graspings plural, most grasping superlative

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He had a reputation as a _____ landlord who always wanted more rent.

Rhymes for grasping

gasping rasping

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Frequently asked questions

What does “grasping” mean?

The word “grasping” means greedy and overly eager for money or possessions. In plain terms, describes someone who is greedy, always reaching for more money or power.

How do you pronounce “grasping”?

“Grasping” is pronounced GRAHS-pihng (/ˈɡɹæspɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “grasping” in a sentence?

Here is “grasping” used in a sentence: “He had a reputation as a grasping landlord who always wanted more rent.”

What part of speech is “grasping”?

“Grasping” is an adjective.

Is “grasping” a common word?

“Grasping” is an uncommon word in modern English.