Clasp

/klæsp/

verbBeginner📊CommonGeneral
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase2 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

To hold or grasp firmly; to fasten or secure with a clasp.

/klæsp/

verbneutralBeginner
General

To hold or grasp firmly.

He clasped the child's hand.

💡 Simply: To clasp something means to hold it tightly, like when you hug a teddy bear really hard!

👶 For kids: To hold on tight!

More Examples

2

The locket clasped shut.

How It's Used

General

"She clasped her hands together in prayer."

Physical

"He clasped the railing tightly as he climbed the stairs."

2

A fastening device, usually consisting of a hook and loop, used to secure something.

/klæsp/

nounneutralBeginner
Technology

A device used for fastening.

The clasp on her bracelet was broken.

💡 Simply: A clasp is like a tiny hug that keeps things together, like the part that holds your necklace closed.

👶 For kids: A thing that keeps things closed.

More Examples

2

He fastened the clasp.

How It's Used

Jewelry

"The necklace had a delicate silver clasp."

Clothing

"The bag closed with a magnetic clasp."

Tip:Think of a clasp on a bracelet – it keeps things closed and secure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Idioms & expressions

clasp hands

To join hands together, often as a sign of agreement, affection, or prayer.

"They clasped hands in a show of solidarity."

From Old English *clasp, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch klamp and German Klammer.

The word 'clasp' has been used in similar senses since Old English.

Memory tip

Imagine clasping your hands in delight – a firm grip shows the meaning!

Word Origin

Original meaning

"To grip or fasten"

clasp one's handsclasp a bookclasp a deal

Common misspellings

claspclaspe

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written