Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
GRASP
I. verb
Etymology: Middle English graspen
Date: 14th century
intransitive verb to make the motion of seizing ; clutch , transitive verb to take or seize eagerly, to clasp or embrace especially with the fingers or arms, to lay hold of with the mind ; comprehend , see: take graspable adjective grasper noun
II. noun
Date: 1561
1. handle , embrace , hold , control ,
3. the reach of the arms, the power of seizing and holding or attaining , mental hold or comprehension especially when broad