grope
UK[ɡrəʊp]US[ɡroʊp]
v
To try to find something that you cannot see by feeling with your hands
v
To search for something in an uncertain or hesitant way, especially for an idea or solution
Etymology
The verb 'grope' originates from the Old English word 'grāpian', meaning "to feel or touch." This Old English term is related to the Old English noun 'grāp', meaning "a grasp." The word has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German 'greifōn' (to seize) and Gothic 'greipan'. The core semantic thread from its ancient roots to its modern usage is the idea of searching or seeking through physical touch, a concept which was later extended metaphorically to describe uncertain or tentative searching in non-physical contexts, such as for words or ideas.
Analysis
The word 'grope' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It is not productively formed from separable modern English morphemes.
Examples
She had to grope for the light switch in the dark hallway.
The politicians are still groping for a solution to the economic crisis.
He groped his way through the dense fog, unable to see more than a foot ahead.