1
general::
Phrase(s): 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.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
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.
American Heritage Idioms