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

Which means the bosses in Tehran will have to unclench their fists and make some face-saving gestures back toward President Obama.

From The Daily Beast

That was a brilliant line about how we will extend a hand to those who unclench their fists.

From The Daily Beast

The phrase was "we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist"-to say that we will get along.

From The Daily Beast

My teeth were together so hard that I had to unclench them before I could answer, "As far away as we can get."

From Project Gutenberg

He tried to make Pretty-Heart drink a few spoonfuls, but the poor little creature could not unclench his teeth.

From Project Gutenberg

Her eyes shone with a strange light, and he saw her clench and unclench her hands like one in great pain.

From Project Gutenberg

Hurley subsided, somewhat, but his huge fists continued to clench and unclench as the boy talked.

From Project Gutenberg

She struggled for self-control, and I saw her hands clench and unclench spasmodically.

From Project Gutenberg