clasp

[ klasp, klahsp ]
/ klæsp, klɑsp /

noun

verb (used with object), clasped or (Archaic) claspt [klaspt, klahspt] /klæspt, klɑspt/; clasping.

verb (used without object), clasped or (Archaic) claspt [klaspt, klahspt] /klæspt, klɑspt/; clasping.

to embrace or hug: The lovers clasped.

Origin of clasp

1275–1325; Middle English clasp (noun), claspen (v.), perhaps blend of clippen clip2 and haspe hasp

OTHER WORDS FROM clasp

in·ter·clasp, verb (used with object) re·clasp, verb (used with object)

Example sentences from the Web for clasp

British Dictionary definitions for clasp

clasp
/ (klɑːsp) /

noun

a fastening, such as a catch or hook, used for holding things together
a firm grasp, hold, or embrace
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 (tr)

to hold in a firm grasp
to grasp firmly with the hand
to fasten together with or as if with a clasp

Derived forms of clasp

clasper, noun

Word Origin for clasp

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

Medical definitions for clasp

clasp
[ klăsp ]

n.

A part of a removable partial denture that directly retains or stabilizes a denture.