[common; from the novel Stranger in a Strange Land, by Robert A.
Heinlein, where it is a Martian word meaning literally `to drink' and
metaphorically `to be one with'] The emphatic form is grok in
fullness.
1. To understand. Connotes intimate and exhaustive knowledge. When
you claim to `grok' some knowledge or technique, you are asserting
that you have not merely learned it in a detached instrumental way
but that it has become part of you, part of your identity. For
example, to say that you "know" {LISP} is simply to assert that you
can code in it if necessary -- but to say you "grok" LISP is to claim
that you have deeply entered the world-view and spirit of the
language, with the implication that it has transformed your view of
programming. Contrast {zen}, which is similar supernal understanding
experienced as a single brief flash. See also {glark}.
2. Used of programs, may connote merely sufficient understanding.
"Almost all C compilers grok the void type these days."
[glossary]
[Reference(s) to this entry by made by: {Genius From Mars Technique}{glark}{high moby}{under the hood}{wizard}{zen}]