lay hold of

lay hold of (someone or something)

To grasp or grip someone or something. Lay hold of that end of the sheet and pull it straight. I tried to lay hold of her before she fell off the step, but it happened too fast.See also: hold, lay, of

lay hold of someone or something

to grasp someone or something with the hands. Just wait till I lay hold of Bill! I can't wait to lay hold of that fishing pole. I'm ready to catch a huge fish.See also: hold, lay, of

lay hold of

Grasp, seize on, as in He clutched at branches, shrubs, anything he could lay hold of to break his fall. [First half of 1500s] Also see get hold of. See also: hold, lay, of