[fas-uh-ning, fah-suh-] 
| something that fastens, as a lock or clasp. |
[fas-uh
n, fah-suhn] | 1. | to attach firmly or securely in place; fix securely to something else. |
| 2. | to make secure, as an article of dress with buttons, clasps, etc., or a door with a lock, bolt, etc. |
| 3. | to enclose securely, as a person or an animal (usually fol. by in): to fasten a monkey in a cage. |
| 4. | to attach, associate, or connect: to fasten a nickname on someone. |
| 5. | to direct (the eyes, thoughts, etc.) intently: to fasten one's eyes on a speaker. |
| 6. | to become fast, fixed, or firm. |
| 7. | to close firmly or securely; lock: This clasp won't fasten. |
| 8. | to take a firm hold; seize (usually fol. by on or upon): to fasten on an idea. |
| 9. | to focus attention; concentrate (usually fol. by on or upon): His gaze fastened on the jewels. |
| fas·ten (fās'ən) v. fas·tened, fas·ten·ing, fas·tens v. tr.
[Middle English fastnen, from Old English fæstnian; see past- in Indo-European roots.] fas'ten·er n. Synonyms: These verbs mean to cause to remain firmly in position or place: fastened our seat belts; anchored the television antenna to the roof; fixed the flagpole in concrete; will moor the rowboat at the dock; secured the bolt after closing the door. |
| fas·ten·ing (fās'ə-nĭng) n. Something, such as a hook, used to attach one thing to another firmly. |