n. & v.
--n.
1. a a device with interlocking parts for fastening. b a buckle or brooch. c a metal fastening on a book-cover.
2 a an embrace; a person's reach. b a grasp or handshake.
3 a bar of silver on a medal-ribbon with the name of the battle etc. at which the wearer was present.
--v.
1. tr. fasten with or as with a clasp.
2 tr. a grasp, hold closely. b embrace, encircle.
3 intr. fasten a clasp.
Phrases and idioms:
clasp hands shake hands with fervour or affection. clasp one's hands interlace one's fingers. clasp-knife a folding knife, usu. with a catch holding the blade when open.
Derivatives:
clasper n.
Etymology: ME: orig. unkn.