Definitions

grappling

[grap-ling] / ˈgræp lɪŋ /

VERB

grab, wrestle

Synonyms

STRONGEST

confront contend cope deal with

STRONG

attack battle catch clash clasp close clutch combat encounter engage face fasten fight grasp grip hold hook hug nab nail scuffle seize snatch struggle tackle take tussle

WEAK

do battle take on

Antonyms

STRONG

agree avoid be immune cancel disconnect dodge free give idle let go liberate lose make peace misunderstand offer open receive refuse reject release retreat run stop support surrender unfasten unlock yield

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Kevin Warsh will be grappling with greater uncertainty and less uniformity at the Fed when he probably takes over from Jerome Powell as head of the U.S. central bank on May 15.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

Linh started the WonderSeed Foundation, a nonprofit that uses neuroscience and technology to help at-risk youth, in 2018 after grappling with her son’s mental health struggles.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Central banks abroad similarly are grappling with the uncertain outlook.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

Restaurants are grappling with a challenging year as consumers tighten their spending.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

Briony nodded and faced away, as though grappling with tragedy.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan