Vocabulary word Grab - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Actions and Manoeuvres

Learning activities:

High School 5

Learning activities:

TOEFL 7

Learning activities:

Traverse and Teeter

Learning activities:

Dictionary Definition of grab

To seize, grasp, or take hold of something suddenly or forcefully.
"The thief tried to grab the woman's purse, but she held onto it tightly."

Detailed Meaning of Grab

It conveys a swift and decisive action aimed at acquiring or obtaining an object or a person. When someone grabs something, they firmly clutch it in their hand or take it into their possession, often with a sense of urgency or determination. "Grab" can also denote capturing someone's attention or interest abruptly or forcefully. It implies a sudden and often unexpected action, indicating a desire to secure or control something swiftly. The verb "grab" can be used in various contexts, from physically taking hold of an object to figuratively capturing someone's interest or seizing an opportunity.

Example Sentences for Grab

1. He quickly reached out to grab the falling book before it hit the ground.
2. The athlete's quick reflexes allowed him to grab the rebound before his opponents.
3. I grab my keys before leaving the house.
4. He quickly grabs his coat and rushes out the door.
5. She reaches out to grab the book from the shelf.
6. The child tries to grab the balloon floating in the air.

Origin and Etymology of Grab

The verb 'grab' has a relatively straightforward etymology that can be traced back to Middle Dutch and Middle Low German origins. It is believed to have originated from the Middle Dutch word 'grabbelen' and the Middle Low German word 'grabbelen,' both of which meant to grope or to snatch at something. These words, in turn, can be traced back to the Old High German word 'grabōn,' which meant to seize or to grab. The root of 'grab' can be connected to the Proto-Germanic word 'grabanan,' which had a similar meaning of taking hold of something suddenly or forcefully. Over time, as the English language evolved, 'grab' became the term used to describe the act of seizing, grasping, or taking hold of something suddenly and with force, reflecting its ancient Germanic origins.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb grab:

snatch

surrender

release

relinquish

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Grab

1. They grab a few snacks from the pantry for their road trip.
2. The athlete's coach tells them to grab the opportunity and give their best.
3. We grab a cup of coffee at our favorite café every morning.
4. The cat pounces to grab the toy mouse.
5. He grabs his phone to check for any missed calls.
6. The hiker grabs onto the tree branch to steady themselves.
7. She decides to grab a quick shower before going to bed.
8. The police officer instructs the suspect to put their hands up and not grab anything.
9. They grab their backpacks and head to school.
10. The toddler tries to grab the spoon and feed themselves.
11. I grab a pen to jot down the important details.
12. The dog leaps forward to grab the frisbee mid-air.
13. The salesperson encourages customers to grab the last item on sale.
14. We grab our seats just as the movie starts.
15. He tries to grab the attention of the crowd with his performance.
16. She extends her arm to grab the bus as it approaches the stop.