clench
clench Lexical Profile
clench Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To close into a tight ball or press firmly together (especially of the fingers, fist, teeth, or jaw), often in response to anger, stress, or determination.
"She tried not to clench her teeth while waiting for the test results to be announced."
To grasp, grip, or hold an object tightly and firmly.
"The runner continued to clench the relay baton tightly until crossing the finish line."
• noun
A tight grip, grasp, or contraction of a muscle or body part, such as the jaw or fist.
"The dentist noticed the habitual clench of the patient's jaw during the examination."
Word Nuance & Usage
"Clench" and "clinch" share the same historical root, but in modern English "clench" is primarily used for physical tightening of the body (such as fists, teeth, or jaws), whereas "clinch" is used for settling an argument, securing a victory, or grappling in sports.
• Rhymes for clench
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English *clencan* ("to make cling, hold fast"), a causative verb related to *clingan* ("to cling, contract").