Definition

A body part found in some male fish and certain insects that helps them hold onto a female during mating.

Example

The male shark used its claspers to hold onto the female while mating.

Conversation

Did you know that some fish have a special structure called a clasper?

Really? What does it do?

It's used by male fish during mating to hold the female securely.

That's fascinating! Nature has some amazing adaptations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clasper originates from the Latin word 'claspere' (meaning to grasp or seize) combined with the suffix '-er' (meaning a person or thing that performs an action). The word 'clasper' refers to a structure or appendage that grasps or holds something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'grasping' ('claspere') to remember that a 'clasper' is something that holds or seizes.

Visually Confused Words