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View synonyms for clasp

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

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • interclasp verb (used with object)
  • reclasp verb (used with object)
  • clasper noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of clasp1

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

Origin of clasp1

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Her cards are firmly clasped to her chest.

Read more on BBC

Wearing a navy suit, he clasped his hands behind his back as his attorney entered the plea.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

They all clasp hands, with Ami telling the others, “I love you guys.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

On the coastal road at Playa Canizo, a man in a straw hat and sodden fatigues, clasping an equally wet suitcase, thrust out his left arm, hoping for a ride to safety.

Read more on Barron's

On Saturday, he knew, walking toward home plate and clasping hands with Will Smith.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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-clasisclasper