pre·hen·sion \prēˈhenchən\noun (-s) Etymology: Latin prehension-, prehensio, from prehensus + -ion-, -io -ion 1.: the act of taking hold, seizing, or grasping (as with the hand); specifically: the conveyance of food or drink into the mouth 2. a.: mental apprehension b.: an apprehension that may or may not be cognitive