English Reference
Adjective

grasping

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈɡɹæspɪŋ/ UK /ɡɹˈɑːspɪŋ/ grasp·ing

adj.wanting to get as much money or as many things as possible for yourself. It describes someone who is greedy and does not like to share.

adj.characterised by a greedy or avaricious desire to acquire wealth or possessions. Often used to describe a person's character or a specific action motivated by selfishness.


SIMPLE

The grasping landlord raised the rent every six months.

CONTEXTUAL

He was known in the industry as a grasping businessman who would do anything to increase his profit margins.

COMPLEX

The novel depicts a grasping aristocracy that clings to its ancient privileges while the rest of the country suffers through a period of extreme economic hardship.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun to describe a person or their behavior.

She got it, but that didn’t stop the press from labelling her as a grasping diva.

The Guardian· 9 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated