grope

Meanings

1. 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.
3. To touch (another person) closely and (especially) sexually.
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.
5. To examine; to test; to sound.

1. An act of groping, especially sexually.
2. An iron fitting of a medieval cart wheel.

Etymology

From Middle English gropien, from Old English grāpian, related to grīpan (whence English gripe); compare also grip.