Definition of "grope" in English

verb

1. (obsolete) To feel with or use the hands; to handle.

2. 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

3. To touch (another person) closely and (especially) sexually.

   • The parents found the couple kissing and groping.

4. 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!

5. (obsolete) To examine; to test; to sound.

   • Felix gropeth him, thinking to have a bribe.

noun

1. (informal) An act of groping, especially sexually.

   • The old man tried to get a quick grope of the young lady on the train.

2. (obsolete) An iron fitting of a medieval cart wheel.