Understanding German epitaph (4)
I believe the answer is:
grip
'understanding' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
'german epitaph' is the wordplay.
'german' becomes 'g' (abbreviation).
'epitaph' becomes 'RIP' (rest in peace).
'g'+'rip'='GRIP'
(Other definitions for grip that I've seen before include "Fascinate" , "Clasp" , "Baggage - hold" , "one on film set" , "Secure" .)