single word requests - Which verb fits better for the action of "creating" an earth connection?

Instead of "making an earth connection", try

Earth as a verb. — ODO

British Connect (an electrical device) with the ground

"the front metal panels must be soundly earthed"
"When plugged in, the pump is earthed and I have a little more piece of mind!"
"They are not able to be earthed, filtered, or shielded electrically."

Ground as a verb. — ODO

North American Connect (an electrical device) with the ground.

"The spark plugs must be grounded to complete the electrical circuit."