clasp

American  

[klasp, klahsp] / klæsp, klɑsp /

noun

1. a device, usually of metal, for fastening together two or more things or parts of the same thing.

   a clasp for paper money; a clasp on a necklace.

   Synonyms:

   catch, hook, clip, pin, brooch

2. a firm grasp or grip.

   a clasp of hands.

3. a tight embrace.

   She held the child in a loving clasp.

   Synonyms:

   hug

4. a small bar or metal design, as a star, for affixing to the ribbon of a military decoration to indicate that the bearer has been awarded the decoration an additional time.

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verb (used with object)

clasped, claspt, clasping

1. to fasten with or as with a clasp.

2. to furnish with a clasp.

3. to seize, grasp, or grip with the hand.

   She clasped the club in her hand.

4. to hold in a tight embrace; hug.

   He clasped the child to him.

verb (used without object)

clasped, claspt, clasping

1. to embrace or hug.

   The lovers clasped.

clasp British  

/ klɑːsp /

noun

1. a fastening, such as a catch or hook, used for holding things together

2. a firm grasp, hold, or embrace

3. military a bar or insignia on a medal ribbon, to indicate either a second award or the battle, campaign, or reason for its award

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verb

1. to hold in a firm grasp

2. to grasp firmly with the hand

3. to fasten together with or as if with a clasp

Other Word Forms

• clasper noun
• interclasp verb (used with object)
• reclasp verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of clasp

1275–1325; Middle English clasp (noun), claspen (v.), perhaps blend of clippen clip ² and haspe hasp

Related Words

• clamp
• clutch
• fasten
• grasp