Clasp

klasp, n. a hook for fastening: an embrace.— v.t. to fasten with a clasp: to enclose and hold in the hand or arms: to embrace.— ns. Clasp′er , that which clasps: the tendril of a plant; Clasp′ing ; Clasp′-knife , a knife the blade of which folds into the handle. [M. E. clapse , from the root of A.S. clyppan , to embrace. See Clip .]