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Grabbed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grabbed

[græbd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

The word 'grabbed' is the simple past tense of the verb 'grab'. It means to seize or take hold of something suddenly or with force. This action often implies a quick or hasty movement. 'Grabbed' can be used to describe physical actions, like taking an object, as well as metaphorical uses, such as capturing someone's attention.

Synonyms

clutched, seized, snagged, snatched.

Examples of usage

  • She grabbed the book from the shelf.
  • He quickly grabbed her hand to prevent her from falling.
  • The child grabbed a cookie from the jar.
  • I grabbed my coat before heading out.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'grabbed attention' is commonly used in media to describe something that captivates an audience instantly.
  • In music, many songs talk about being 'grabbed' by love or emotions, illustrating how strong feelings can suddenly take hold of us.
  • Movies often depict action scenes where characters grab objects quickly to escape danger, portraying urgency and thrill.

Psychology

  • The act of grabbing can be linked to impulsivity, where a quick decision leads to a rapid action without much thought.
  • Research shows that the physical action of grabbing something can trigger a mental response, making us feel more in control.
  • In social situations, people might 'grab' onto others emotionally, forming strong bonds based on quick interactions.

Literature

  • In stories, characters often 'grab' opportunities, symbolizing seizing moments of chance and change.
  • Poets might use 'grabbed' to evoke imagery of urgency or desire, representing a moment of passion or longing.
  • Fictional tales frequently include scenes where characters grab weapons or tools, marking a turning point in the plot.

Everyday Usage

  • The term is commonly used in casual conversations, such as 'I grabbed a coffee on my way to work,' exemplifying everyday actions.
  • In sports, players often describe making a quick play, like 'he grabbed the ball' to highlight speed and skill.
  • In cooking, recipes might instruct to 'grab' ingredients, making the action feel more accessible and fun.

Origin of 'grabbed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Middle English term 'graben,' which meant to seize or snatch.
  • It is believed to derive from the Old English 'grapian,' which also meant to grasp or clutch.
  • The transition from 'grapian' to 'grab' illustrates changes in pronunciation and spelling over centuries, reflecting language evolution.

The term 'grabbed' originates from the Old English word 'grabbian', which meant to seize or lay hold of something. This word is related to the Middle Dutch 'grabbere', meaning to seize or claw. Over the centuries, the use of 'grab' in English evolved to encompass a broader array of meanings, including both physical and metaphorical contexts. The past tense, 'grabbed', has been in use since the late 19th century, reflecting its ongoing relevance in describing quick, sometimes impulsive actions. In contemporary usage, 'grabbed' is common in informal communication, often implying urgency or a lack of deliberation, whether in the context of physical actions or capturing someone's interest.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,811 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.