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.

There’s no missing the point, and clarity can be essential when grappling with something as slippery as grief.

From Salon • May 25, 2026

The White House, Congress, and local governments throughout the country are grappling with whether and how to regulate AI.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

With much of Iran’s pre-war leadership dead, Washington is grappling with the possibility that the country’s new leaders may be even less disposed to compromise.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

Most, including Lewis, are in various stages of grappling with insurance, permits and construction, whether they have to rebuild from the ground up or salvage their homes by remediating damage caused by toxic smoke.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

“I suppose you’ll try grappling for the lost traps?”

From "The Young Man and the Sea" by Rodman Philbrick