unclench

[ uhn-klench ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to open or become opened from a clenched state.

Word History and Origins

Origin of unclench¹

First recorded in 1300–50, unclench is from the Middle English word unclenchen. See un- ², clench

Example Sentences

Thanks to TV and movies, and the ever-present emphasis on playing to Middle America, they know his type, and that's enough of a sell for voters who are dying to unclench a little.

From Salon

The “cleanse” stretched from days into weeks, and Ramona felt her mind unclench.

From Seattle Times

And you could let your shoulders unclench for five minutes.

From Los Angeles Times

People like my sibling who desperately needs to unclench, and to whom I might send a $17 bottle of “bowel support” listed under the site’s gifts for travel enthusiasts.

From Salon

For the first time in months, I feel my heart unclench a bit.

From Slate