Dictionary
grasping
adjective grasp·ing \ˈgras-piŋ\
: wanting money and possessions too much
Full Definition of GRASPING
: desiring material possessions urgently and excessively and often to the point of ruthlessness
— grasp·ing·ly \ˈgras-piŋ-lē\ adverb
— grasp·ing·ness noun
See grasping defined for English-language learners
See grasping defined for kids
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First Known Use of GRASPING
1710
Related to GRASPING
- Synonyms
- acquisitive, avaricious, avid, coveting, covetous, grabby, greedy, mercenary, moneygrubbing, rapacious
Synonym Discussion of 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>.
GRASPINGNESS Defined for Kids
grasping
adjective grasp·ing \ˈgra-spiŋ\
Definition of GRASPING for Kids
: greedy 1
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