grope
verb (used without object)
to feel about with the hands; feel one's way.
were groping
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past progressiveof grope.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
By the early 20th century some thinkers were groping their way towards a better understanding of money in the economy, and how its mismanagement could cause problems.
From Economist ● Apr. 19, 2018
Tech pundits and social media theorists were groping for metaphors last week in a debate over when it’s acceptable for journalists to quote tweets by Twitter users who aren’t public figures in their articles.
From Forbes ● Mar. 17, 2014
At Sam Waley-Cohen's London home we were groping for a definition of Corinthianism, a concept buried by money.
From The Guardian ● Mar. 13, 2011
Faced with steadily growing competition from cable and other video choices, the networks were groping for a way to stay relevant and healthy.
From Time Magazine Archive
Though he lay on his cot, his hands were groping fumblingly through the city of men for something to match the feelings smoldering in him; his groping was a yearning to know.
From "Native Son" by Richard Wright
