clench

[ klench ]

verb (used with object)

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

   Synonyms: clutch, clasp

3. clinch ( def 1 ).
4. clinch ( defs 2, 3, 4 ).

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 ( defs 9, 11, 12 ).

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

He often wore wire-rimmed glasses, and his jaw jutted forward, as if clenched.

From Salon

The retired aerospace engineer, who lives in Sierra Madre, did about four reps before his teeth clenched, his legs trembled and he let out short puffs of air through pursed lips.

From Los Angeles Times

As he was moved into the ambulance “his jaw suddenly started to clench down”, she said.

From BBC

Dark feelings and internal conflicts characterize these first episodes, which are full of raised voices, clenched jaws and steely stares.

From Los Angeles Times

Around a cut-out clenched fist installed above the square after youth protests in 2019, there are blankets, mattresses and tents made of whatever else people could find.

From BBC

Related Words

• clamp
• clasp
• clutch