Definition

Verb: - To release or open something that is fastened or held by a clasp or a tight grip. It specifically refers to the action of undoing a clasp or letting go of something held firmly.

Usage

The verb "unclasp" describes the deliberate action of opening a fastening or loosening a hold. It is often used with objects that have a clasp mechanism (like jewelry, bags, or hands that are tightly held together). It implies a reversal of the action "to clasp."

Examples

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: While primarily physical, it can be used figuratively to describe releasing an emotional or metaphorical grip.
  • After years of guilt, she finally unclasped her heart from the past.
• "To unclasp oneself from": To detach or free oneself from a person, situation, or emotion.
  • He needed to unclasp himself from the burdens of leadership.

Variants and Related Words

• Clasp (verb): To fasten or hold tightly. (The direct opposite action).
• Unfasten (verb): A more general synonym for opening any fastening.
• Unhook (verb): To release from a hook, similar in specific mechanism.

Synonyms

• Unfasten
• Undo
• Unlock (when referring to a clasp-like mechanism)
• Release (from a grip)

Antonyms

• Clasp
• Fasten
• Secure
• Grip

Phrasal Verbs

(No common phrasal verbs are formed directly with "unclasp". The word itself is a specific verb.)

Related Idioms

(There are no common idioms that centrally feature the word "unclasp.")

Verb

1. release from a clasp
   • She clasped and unclasped her hands