# grope

/ˈɡɹoʊp/ (US) · /ɡɹˈəʊp/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grope
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

to feel around with your hands when you cannot see well. It can also mean to touch someone in a sexual way that is not wanted.

For teachers: to search blindly or uncertainly with the hands; also refers to touching someone sexually without their consent. Often implies a lack of precision or a violation of personal boundaries.

## Examples

- He had to grope for the light switch in the dark.
- After the power went out, she had to grope her way along the hallway to find the emergency flashlight.
- The detective had to grope for a motive among the conflicting testimonies, much like a man searching for a lost key in a pitch-black room.

## Usage notes

- When meaning to search, it often takes the preposition 'for' or 'around'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.