beclasp: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Extremely Rare / ArchaicLiterary / Archaic / Poetic
Quick answer
What does “beclasp” mean?
To fasten or grip securely with a clasp.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To fasten or grip securely with a clasp; to encircle and hold tight.
To enclose or embrace tightly, often used metaphorically for emotional or conceptual attachment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference; the word is equally archaic and literary in both varieties.
Connotations
Poetic, antiquated, possibly romantic or dramatic. In modern use, it would be a deliberate stylistic choice to sound archaic or lyrical.
Frequency
Effectively obsolete in both varieties. Might appear in historical novels or poetry more than in contemporary speech or writing.
Grammar
How to Use “beclasp” in a Sentence
[Subject] beclasp [Object][Subject] beclasp [Object] in [their arms/hands]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “beclasp” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He did beclasp her hand with a surprising tenderness.
- The ornate brooch was designed to beclasp the thick velvet cloak securely.
American English
- In the poem, the vines beclasp the ancient oak.
- She beclasped the locket, a final token from her grandmother.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used, except possibly in literary analysis of older texts.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “beclasp”
- Using it in modern contexts. (Mistake: 'She beclasped her seatbelt.')
- Confusing it with 'embrace', which does not imply a mechanical fastening.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is extremely rare and considered archaic or literary. You will almost never encounter it in modern spoken or written English.
'Beclasp' intensifies the action of 'clasp', suggesting a more complete, encircling, or secure hold. 'Clasp' is the standard, still-used verb.
Yes, in a poetic or metaphorical sense. For example, 'fear beclasped his mind' is a possible literary use, meaning fear gripped his mind completely.
No. It is important to understand its meaning if you read older literature, but it should not be used in active, modern English production as it will sound unnatural and affected.
To fasten or grip securely with a clasp.
Beclasp is usually literary / archaic / poetic in register.
Beclasp: in British English it is pronounced /bɪˈklɑːsp/, and in American English it is pronounced /bɪˈklæsp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: BEing completely surrounded by a CLASP.
Conceptual Metaphor
ATTACHMENT IS ENCIRCLING / SECURITY IS A FIRM HOLD.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the verb 'beclasp' be LEAST appropriate?