/klasp, klahsp/ , n. , v. , clasped or ( Archaic ) claspt /klaspt, klahspt/ ; clasping . n.
1. a device, usually of metal, for fastening together two or more things or parts of the same thing: a clasp for paper money; a clasp on a necklace.
2. a firm grasp or grip: a clasp of hands.
3. a tight embrace: She held the child in a loving clasp.
4. a small bar or metal design, as a star, for affixing to the ribbon of a military decoration to indicate that the bearer has been awarded the decoration an additional time.
v.t.
5. to fasten with or as with a clasp.
6. to furnish with a clasp.
7. to seize, grasp, or grip with the hand: She clasped the club in her hand.
8. to hold in a tight embrace; hug: He clasped the child to him.
v.i.
9. to embrace or hug: The lovers clasped.
[ 1275-1325; ME clasp (n.), claspen (v.), perh. b. clippen CLIP 2 and haspe HASP ]
Syn. 1. brooch, pin, clip, hook, catch. 3. hug.