grope/ɡɹəʊp/EtymologyFrom Middle English gropien, from Old English grāpian, related to grīpan (whence English gripe); compare also grip.nounAn act of groping, especially sexually.“The old man tried to get a quick grope of the young lady on the train.”An iron fitting of a medieval cart wheel.“Gropes appear to be pieces of iron binding together the inner joint of the fitting, and grope-nails to have been used for fastening these to the wood.”verbTo 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.“a. 1812. Joseph Stevens Buckminster, sermon to grope about a little longer among the miseries and sensualities of a worldly life”To touch (another person) closely and (especially) sexually.“The parents found the couple kissing and groping.”To intentionally and inappropriately touch or rub against another person, in such a manner as to make the contact appear accidental, for the purpose of one's sexual gratification.“That old man groped that girl on the train!”To examine; to test; to sound.“Felix gropeth him, thinking to have a bribe.”