Learn English – A word for using touch to find something

single-word-requests

Let's say that I dropped a pen under my couch. I can't see it, but I know it's there somewhere, so I reach in and _______ with my hands/fingers.

The word "search" would work, but I'm looking for something specific to touch. "Grasp" is close, but that's the verb for after the verb I'm looking for.

Best Answer

If blindly is a factor in what you're looking for, then see grope, defined by Oxford dictionary as

Search blindly or uncertainly by feeling with the hands.

See Cambridge dictionary define grope:

To feel with your hands, especially in order to find or move towards something when you cannot see easily.

Keep in mind to steer clear of its other meaning, which is, to touch someone for sexual pleasure.

There is also scrabble, defined by Oxford dictionary as

Scratch or grope around with one's fingers to find, collect, or hold on to something.

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