clasp

1 of 2

noun

ˈklasp How to pronounce clasp (audio)
Synonyms of claspnext
1
a
: a device (such as a hook) for holding objects or parts together
b
: a device (such as a bar) attached to a military medal to indicate an additional award of the medal or the action or service for which it was awarded
2
: a holding or enveloping with or as if with the hands or arms

clasp

2 of 2

verb

clasped; clasping; clasps

transitive verb

1
: to fasten with or as if with a clasp
a robe clasped with a brooch
2
: to enclose and hold with the arms
specifically : embrace
3
: to seize with or as if with the hand : grasp

Synonyms

Noun

Verb

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of clasp in a Sentence

Noun Can you fasten the clasp on this bracelet for me? be careful that your clasp on the cat isn't too tight, or she could get hurt Verb
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The clasp comes with a bungee cord that has D-rings at either end, for extending the reach between the T6 and the clasp. — Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 5 Mar. 2025 Archaeologists think the clasp may have come from a Christian monastery. — Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Jan. 2025
Verb
Alec is visibly disturbed by the news, pushing his chair back and clasping his hand to his face, stunned into silence. — Krystie Lee Yandoli, Rolling Stone, 24 Feb. 2025 Option to clasp your hands behind your back and reach your knuckles toward the wall behind you. — Amber Sayer, Outside Online, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clasp

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English claspe

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clasp was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing clasp

Rhymes for clasp

See All Rhymes for clasp

Browse Nearby Words

clasp
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Cite this Entry

“Clasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clasp. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

clasp

1 of 2 noun
ˈklasp How to pronounce clasp (audio)
1
: a device for holding together objects or parts of something
2
: a holding or embracing with or as if with the hands or arms

clasp

2 of 2 verb
1
: to fasten with or as if with a clasp
2
: to enclose and hold with the arms
especially : embrace
3
: to seize with or as if with the hand : grasp
clasper noun

Medical Definition

clasp

noun
ˈklasp How to pronounce clasp (audio)
: a device designed to encircle a tooth to hold a denture in place

More from Merriam-Webster on clasp

Nglish: Translation of clasp for Spanish Speakers

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