clasp

Etymology

Noun dated in the 13th century AD and verb dated in the late 14th century AD; from claspe, possible modification of clapse, which is from Old English clyppan (“to grasp”). Related to English enclasp (“embrace, hold tightly in one's arms”).

noun

1. A fastener or holder, particularly one that clasps.
   I always have a hard time working the clasp on this necklace!
2. (in the singular) An embrace, a grasp, or handshake.
   He took her hand in a firm clasp.

verb

1. (transitive) To take hold of; to grasp.
   They clasped hands and parted as friends.
   And when the Boy dropped off to sleep, the Rabbit would snuggle down close under his little warm chin and dream, with the Boy's hands clasped close round him all night long. 1922, Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit
2. To shut or fasten together with, or as if with, a clasp.