fasten: Meaning and Definition of

fas•ten

Pronunciation: (fas'un, fä'sun), [key]
— v.t.
  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.
—v.i.
  1. to become fast, fixed, or firm.
  2. to close firmly or securely; lock: This clasp won't fasten.
  3. to take a firm hold; seize (usually fol. by on or upon): to fasten on an idea.
  4. to focus attention; concentrate (usually fol. by on or upon): His gaze fastened on the jewels.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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