clench

[klench]

verb (used with object)

1. to close (the hands, teeth, etc.) tightly.

2. to grasp firmly; grip.

   Synonyms: clutch, clasp

3. clinch.

4. clinch.

verb (used without object)

1. to close or knot up tightly.

   His hands clenched as he faced his enemy.

noun

1. the act of clenching.

2. a tight hold; grip.

3. something that clenches or holds fast.

4. clinch.

clench

/ klɛntʃ /

verb

1. to close or squeeze together (the teeth, a fist, etc) tightly

2. to grasp or grip firmly

noun

1. a firm grasp or grip

2. a device that grasps or grips, such as a clamp

noun

1. another word for clinch

Word History and Origins

Origin of clench¹

1200–50; Middle English clenchen; compare Old English beclencan hold fast

Word History and Origins

Origin of clench¹

Old English beclencan, related to Old High German klenken to tie, Middle High German klank noose, Dutch klinken rivet

Example Sentences

I see him wipe his eyes and straighten up, his jaw clenching.

Read more on Literature

Lord Ashton’s jaw clenched in anger, which made his almost-pointed ears quiver in a frankly canine way.

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Without waiting for a reply, Lady Constance wheeled ’round and marched back to the house, her small, pale hands clenched into fists.

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Brought both hands together and clenched them into a tight fist on his lap.

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Winners and aces bring a huge roar to the heavens, clenched fist raised high.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• clamp 
• clasp 
• clutch