v. & n.
--v. (gripped, gripping)
1. a tr. grasp tightly; take a firm hold of. b intr. take a firm hold, esp. by friction.
2 tr. (of a feeling or emotion) deeply affect (a person) (was gripped by fear).
3 tr. compel the attention or interest of (a gripping story).
--n.
1. a a firm hold; a tight grasp or clasp. b a manner of grasping or holding.
2 the power of holding attention.
3 a mental or intellectual understanding or mastery. b effective control of a situation or one's behaviour etc. (lose one's grip).
4 a a part of a machine that grips or holds something. b a part or attachment by which a tool, implement, weapon, etc., is held in the hand.
5 HAIRGRIP.
6 a travelling bag.
7 an assistant in a theatre, film studio, etc.
8 Austral. sl. a job or occupation.
Phrases and idioms:
come (or get) to grips with approach purposefully; begin to deal with. in the grip of dominated or affected by (esp. an adverse circumstance or unpleasant sensation).
Derivatives:
gripper n. grippingly adv.
Etymology: OE gripe, gripa handful (as GRIPE)