graspable
UK[ˈɡrɑːspəbl]US[ˈɡræspəbl]
adj
able to be grasped or understood
Morpheme Breakdown
grasp
able
grasp
to seize
able
capable of
Etymology
the word 'graspable' is a modern english formation built upon the older verb 'grasp'. the verb 'grasp' originates from middle english 'graspen', meaning to reach for or seize, which is related to old english and other germanic words for 'grip'. the suffix '-able', entering english via old french from latin '-abilis', denotes capability or susceptibility. therefore, the literal construction 'capable of being grasped' evolved from a physical sense of seizing with the hand to the more abstract and common modern meaning of being capable of being comprehended by the mind.
Analysis
Structure: grasp (to seize) + able (capable of)
grasp (from middle english 'graspen', of germanic origin, meaning to seize or clutch) + able (from latin '-abilis', a suffix forming adjectives meaning 'capable of, fit for')
Examples
the concept was presented in a clear and graspable manner.
for young children, the toy's large handles are easily graspable.
he made the complex scientific theory surprisingly graspable for the general audience.