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View synonyms for clench

clench

[ klench ]

verb (used with object)

  1. to close (the hands, teeth, etc.) tightly.
  2. to grasp firmly; grip.

    Synonyms: clutch, clasp



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.

clench

/ klɛntʃ /

verb

  1. to close or squeeze together (the teeth, a fist, etc) tightly
  2. to grasp or grip firmly
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. a firm grasp or grip
  2. a device that grasps or grips, such as a clamp
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. another word for clinch
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of clench1

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

"His hands were all clenched up and he was shaking," Graham says.

From BBC

In the moment, the senior forward roared to the arena’s rafters, both of his hands clenched in fists.

It makes my stomach clench and I can breathe and feel a little bit better.’

He spoke with fire in his eyes, often fists clenched for emphasis, not injury.

Writing on Instagram, she said: "I have TMJ and wake most days with awful headaches from tension & jaw clenching."

From BBC

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