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.

---

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

---

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

Dad is leaning against the doorframe with his eyes squeezed shut and one hand clenched at his forehead, leaving the computer available.

From Literature

Strong Jonn exclaimed in anger and stepped forward with clenched fists.

From Literature

I was on my knees on the floor, with my hands clenched and lifted up to him, the way people look in pictures when they’re pleading for mercy.

From Literature

As Jonathan scrambled across the unsteady ground, he clenched his teeth, bracing himself for the impact.

From Literature

“Do you think I’m some kind of moron?” he asked, jaw clenching.

From Literature

Related Words

• clamp
• clasp
• clutch