SINCE 1828
clasper
noun
clasp·er
| \ ˈkla-spər
\
\
Definition of clasper
: a male copulatory structure:
a
: one of a pair of external anal processes of an insect that are used to grasp a female
b
: one of a pair of organs that are extensions of the pelvic fins of cartilaginous fishes
Examples of clasper in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Male sharks internally fertilize females with one of their two sperm-transfer organs, called claspers. — National Geographic, "How do Animals Have Sex Underwater?," 27 May 2017 Claspers are penis-like organs male sharks use to transfer seminal fluid into the vent of a female. — National Geographic, "7 Amazing Animal Organs People Don't Have," 14 Jan. 2017 In some species, the claspers are held in place by spiny projections. — National Geographic, "7 Amazing Animal Organs People Don't Have," 14 Jan. 2017 In males the pelvic claspers, used in mating, glow. — David Gruber, National Geographic, "Through a Shark's Eyes: See How They Glow in the Deep," 25 Apr. 2016These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'clasper.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on clasper
What made you want to look up clasper? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Farm Idioms Quiz
-
- What does 'poke' refer to in the expression 'pig in a poke'?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share clasper
Resources for clasper