from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Clasp \Clasp\ (kl[.a]sp), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Clasped}
(kl[.a]spt); 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).
[1913 Webster]
2. To inclose and hold in the hand or with the arms; to
grasp; to embrace.
[1913 Webster]
3. To surround and cling to; to entwine about. "Clasping
ivy." --Milton.
[1913 Webster]