English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

clasp

klahsp

Clasp (noun) means a fastener with interlocking parts used to hold something closed, like a necklace or bag. Example: “The clasp on her bracelet came undone.”

noun
1
A fastener with interlocking parts used to hold something closed, like a necklace or bag.
"The clasp on her bracelet came undone."
verb
1
To hold something tightly, often by wrapping fingers or arms around it.
"He clasped her hand as they crossed the road."
"She clasped the letter to her chest."

How to use clasp

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither the metal fastener on jewellery/bags, or the act of gripping something firmly.

Common pairings
a gold clasp clasp someone's hand clasp tightly

Word forms

clasped past tense, clasps plural, clasps singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “clasp” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ on her bracelet came undone.

Etymology

From Middle English claspe, likely related to Old English clyppan, "to embrace."

Origin: Old English

beclasp grasp grip join put together

Related words

Rhymes for clasp

See all rhymes for clasp →

Frequently asked questions

What does “clasp” mean?

The word “clasp” means a fastener with interlocking parts used to hold something closed, like a necklace or bag. In plain terms, either the metal fastener on jewellery/bags, or the act of gripping something firmly.

How do you pronounce “clasp”?

“Clasp” is pronounced klahsp (/klæsp/ in IPA).

How do you use “clasp” in a sentence?

Here is “clasp” used in a sentence: “The clasp on her bracelet came undone.”

What is another word for “clasp”?

Words with a similar meaning to “clasp” include beclasp, grasp, grip, join and put together.

What part of speech is “clasp”?

Depending on how it is used, “clasp” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “clasp” come from?

The word “clasp” comes from Old English. From Middle English claspe, likely related to Old English clyppan, "to embrace.".

How many meanings does “clasp” have?

“Clasp” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a fastener with interlocking parts used to hold something closed, like a necklace or bag.

Featured in

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial