grope
English
/ɡɹəʊp/, /ɡɹoʊp/
verb
Definitions
- (obsolete) To feel with or use the hands; to handle.
- To search or attempt to find something in the dark, or, as a blind person, by feeling; to move about hesitatingly, as in darkness or obscurity; to feel one's way, as with the hands, when one can not see.
- To touch (another person) closely and (especially) sexually.
- To intentionally and inappropriately touch another person, in such a manner as to make the contact appear accidental, for the purpose of one's sexual gratification.
- (obsolete) To examine; to test; to sound.
Etymology
Inherited from Middle English gropien inherited from Old English grāpian.
Origin
Old English
grāpian