Clasp \Clasp\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Clasped; p. pr. & vb. n. Clasping] [OE. claspen, clapsen, prob. akin to E. clap.]

1. To shut or fasten together with, or as with, a clasp; to shut or fasten (a clasp, or that which fastens with a clasp).

2. To inclose and hold in the hand or with the arms; to grasp; to embrace.

3. To surround and cling to; to entwine about. ``Clasping ivy.'' --Milton.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Clasp \Clasp\, n.

1. An adjustable catch, bent plate, or hook, for holding together two objects or the parts of anything, as the ends of a belt, the covers of a book, etc.

2. A close embrace; a throwing of the arms around; a grasping, as with the hand.

Clasp knife, a large knife, the blade of which folds or shuts into the handle.

Clasp lock, a lock which closes or secures itself by means of a spring.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)