Gripped

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /ɡɹɪpt/

Definitions

1. To seize or hold something tightly and securely ; to captivate or fascinate someone deeply, causing intense interest or emotional involvement
2. To clasp or grasp with strength and control ; to engross or enrapture a person, making them unable to look away
3. To grip physically with a firm hold to prevent movement ; to evoke a strong feeling or focus that commands full attention

Etymology: "Gripped" is the past tense of "grip," which entered Middle English as "grippen," from Old English "grippan." That traces back to a Proto-Germanic verb, "*gripjaną," which also gave Old High German "gripfen." Its close relative is Old English "grīpan," the source of "gripe," and "grope" is related as well.

Synonyms: held, clutched, grasped, seized, embraced

Antonyms: released, let go, opened, dropped, loosed