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fas·ten

fasten

 
 
pronunciation:
fae sn
parts of speech:
transitive verb, intransitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Builder
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: fastens, fastening, fastened
definition 1: to attach, join, or affix securely to something else or in place.
The officer fastened the medal to the soldier's jacket.I fastened the metal strips to the wood with the small screws.They fastened the television to its stand to prevent it from being stolen.
synonyms:
affix, attach, connect, infix, join, moor, stick
antonyms:
unfasten
similar words:
anchor, belt, bind, bond, clip, fix, grip, hitch, mount, nail, secure, tether, truss
definition 2: to close firmly or secure, as with a clasp, lock, buttons, or buckle.
He fastened his seat belt and started the car.The toddler fastened her pajama top with only a little help from her mother.The flight attendant fastened the overhead bins that had remained open.She had to put all her weight on her suitcase in order to fasten it.
synonyms:
latch, lock, secure
antonyms:
loose, loosen, undo, unfasten
similar words:
bind, buckle, clasp, close, grip, link
definition 3: to enclose securely, as in an enclosure or restraint.
She fastened the baby into his car seat.
synonyms:
confine, enclose, lock in, shut up
antonyms:
unfasten
similar words:
imprison, nail, restrain, restrict, secure, stick
definition 4: to fix (one's gaze, attention, or the like) upon something.
The fierce dog fastened its eyes on the frightened mail carrier.
synonyms:
concentrate, fix, rivet, train
similar words:
focus, hold, pin
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition 1: to become attached or secured.
The handle fastens to the blade just here.
synonyms:
catch, cleave to, connect, hook, join, link, lodge, stick
similar words:
bind, cling, grip, latch onto
definition 2: to close securely.
The door fastens with a stout latch.
synonyms:
catch, grip
antonyms:
unfasten
similar words:
close, lock, shut, stick
definition 3: to focus intently or steadily (usu. fol. by "on" or "upon").
Her eyes fastened on mine.
synonyms:
focus
similar words:
grip
definition 4: to grasp, seize, or cling to a thought or idea (usu. fol. by "on" or "upon").
She fastened on the dream of winning.
synonyms:
latch onto
similar words:
adhere, cling, grip, seize
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
derivation: fastener (n.)
Word Builder: fasten +
  • fastener:
    a thing used to fasten, such as a zipper, clip, or button.