'grasp' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'grípa,' where 'grípa' meant 'to seize or take hold of.'

'grípa' transformed into the Middle English word 'graspen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'grasp.'

Initially, it meant 'to seize or take hold of,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to hold firmly' and 'to understand.'