verb
grope
grohp
Grope (verb) means to feel around with the hands, especially when unable to see clearly. Example: “She groped for the light switch in the dark room.”
verb
1
To feel around with the hands, especially when unable to see clearly.
"She groped for the light switch in the dark room."
2
To touch another person inappropriately or sexually without consent.
"He was arrested after groping a passenger on the train."
How to use grope
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither feeling your way around blindly, or touching someone sexually without their consent.
Common mistake
The sexual sense is a serious criminal act, not a casual or humorous one — be careful with tone.
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Word forms
- Plural
- gropes
- Third person singular
- gropes
- Past tense
- groped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ for the light switch in the dark room.
Etymology
From Old English grāpian, related to the word "gripe" and to "grip."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for grope
See all rhymes for grope →Frequently asked questions
What does “grope” mean?
The word “grope” means to feel around with the hands, especially when unable to see clearly.
How do you pronounce “grope”?
“Grope” is pronounced grohp (/ɡɹoʊp/ in IPA).
How do you use “grope” in a sentence?
Here is “grope” used in a sentence: “She groped for the light switch in the dark room.”
What is another word for “grope”?
Words with a similar meaning to “grope” include glaum, root, feel up and touch up.
What part of speech is “grope”?
“Grope” is a verb.
Where does the word “grope” come from?
The word “grope” comes from Old English. From Old English grāpian, related to the word "gripe" and to "grip.".
How many meanings does “grope” have?
“Grope” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to feel around with the hands, especially when unable to see clearly.
