clasping
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
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]