clench

American  

[klench] / klɛntʃ /

verb (used with object)

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

2. to grasp firmly; grip.

   Synonyms:

   clutch, clasp

3. clinch.

4. clinch.

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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 British  

/ klɛntʃ /

verb

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

2. to grasp or grip firmly

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noun

1. a firm grasp or grip

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

noun

1. another word for clinch

Etymology

Origin of clench

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

Example Sentences

I don’t actually know if this is true, but the thought makes my stomach clench and I look down at my hoodie.

From Literature

In a city where everyone’s stressed and most people’s jaws are clenched without even knowing it, the result felt worth it.

From Los Angeles Times

Did the player have a clenched fist, which indicates aggression?

From BBC

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

From Literature

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

From Literature

Related Words

• clamp
• clasp
• clutch