clench
verb (used with object)
to close (the hands, teeth, etc.) tightly.
were clenching
-
past progressiveof clench.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They were clenching on to the sides of their desks and looking as afeared as a horse that’s seen a three-head snake.
From "Elijah of Buxton" by Christopher Paul Curtis
Diana was shaking all over and her hands were clenching and unclenching as she stared at the man, who seemed a part of the horse he was sitting so closely.
From The Sheik by E. M. (Edith Maude) Hull
His hands were clenching and unclenching, and his head moved restlessly from side to side.
From The Rose-Garden Husband by Margaret Widdemer
Again his fingers were clenching and unclenching as he stared at Raine.
From The Golden Snare by James Oliver Curwood
Arthur's face was pale, and his teeth were clenching his under-lip; but he had made up his mind, and he said what he had to say like a man.
From The Wolf Patrol A Tale of Baden-Powell's Boy Scouts by John Finnemore
