grabble

verb

grab·​ble ˈgra-bəl How to pronounce grabble (audio)
grabbled; grabbling ˈgra-b(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce grabble (audio)

intransitive verb

1
: to search with the hand : grope
2
: to lie or fall prone : sprawl
grabbler noun

Examples of grabble in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In places were grabbling sticks and the like aren’t allowed, noodlers get the extra reach by way of their feet. Will Brantley, Field & Stream, 15 June 2023

Word History

Etymology

Dutch grabbelen, from Middle Dutch, frequentative of grabben

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of grabble was circa 1580

Dictionary Entries Near grabble

Cite this Entry

“Grabble.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grabble. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on grabble

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!