clasp
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clasp
- /klɑːsp/ UK
- /klæsp/ UK
- /klasp/ Northern England, Scotland
- /klæsp/ US
Rhymes with -ɑːsp, -æsp
Where it comes from
Noun dated ca. 1300 and verb dated ca. 1400; from Middle English claspe (“metal catch or hook used to hold things together”), possible metathesis of clapse, which comes from or related to Old English clyppan (“clasp”) (also see clip (verb)). Related to English enclasp (“embrace, hold tightly in one's arms”). Compare hasp, of very similar meaning but older known provenance.
noun clasps
- A device with interlocking parts used for fastening things together, such as a fastener or a holder. I always have a hard time working the clasp on this necklace!
- A bar or insignia on a medal ribbon, to either indicate an additional award of the medal, or the action or service for which it was awarded.
- An embrace, a grasp, or handshake. He took her hand in a firm clasp.
verb clasps · clasping · clasped
- To take hold of; to grasp. They clasped hands and parted as friends.
- To shut or fasten together with, or as if with, a clasp.
- To cling.
Similar: beclasp, grasp, grip, join, put together
