clasp

[klasp, klahsp]

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.

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

/ 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

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)

Word History and Origins

Origin of clasp¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of clasp¹

C14: of uncertain origin; compare Old English clyppan to embrace

Example Sentences

He sank into his seat, shoulders folding inward as he clasped his hands — emotion creeping in as the cheers grew louder.

From Los Angeles Times

Other than acknowledging when the judge asked questions, Diaz kept his hands clasped in his lap.

From Los Angeles Times

As he stood in the wings, fans started chanting "Oh, Ian McKellen" to the tune of The White Stripes' Seven Nation Army, at which the actor clasped his hands to his face in shock.

From BBC

Their foreheads were pressed together, their eyes were shut, their hands clasped; her lips were ever-so-slightly pursed, his forehead was wrinkled in concentration.

From Los Angeles Times

On our call, Patinkin clasps his arm around Grody, showering her with affection and telling her he adores her as she bursts out laughing.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• clamp 
• clutch 
• fasten 
• grasp