from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
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.
[1913 Webster]
2. A close embrace; a throwing of the arms around; a
grasping, as with the hand.
[1913 Webster]
{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.
[1913 Webster]