unclasp

verb

un·​clasp ˌən-ˈklasp How to pronounce unclasp (audio)
unclasped; unclasping; unclasps

transitive verb

1
: to open the clasp of
unclasp a purse
2
: to open or cause to be opened
unclasp a clenched hand

intransitive verb

: to loosen a hold

Examples of unclasp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web His hands, with their many rings, are broad and eloquent, delicately clasping and unclasping in syncopated claps. James Parker, The Atlantic, 21 Dec. 2019 The catalogue librarian, John Myers, unclasped the book’s old cover and sat down to see what was inside. Avi Selk, Washington Post, 14 Feb. 2018 The democratization of data would unclasp the shackles of the quants as well. Daniel Roth, WIRED, 11 Mar. 2009

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unclasp.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unclasp was in 1530

Dictionary Entries Near unclasp

Cite this Entry

“Unclasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unclasp. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

unclasp

verb
un·​clasp ˌən-ˈklasp How to pronounce unclasp (audio)
: to release from a clasp

More from Merriam-Webster on unclasp

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!