The word "gripped" portrays a sense of holding tightly onto something. It can be used to depict an intense emotion or situation. Some synonyms for "gripped" include grasped, held, clutched, seized, embraced, and squeezed. If you want to describe a firm hold or grasp in a less intense manner, you can use terms like clasp, clutch, or grip. However, if you are looking for a more intense and dramatic description, you can use words like clenched, squeezed, or tightened to show that something or someone is gripped firmly. By using synonyms effectively, you can add depth and meaning to your writing.