Clench: meaning, definitions and examples

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clench

[ klɛn(t)ʃ ]

^{Context #1}

physical action

To close one's hands into fists tightly, typically as a sign of anger, determination, or pain.

Synonyms

clutch, grip, squeeze

Examples of usage

He clenched his fists in frustration.
She clenched her teeth to stop herself from screaming.
The pain was so intense that he clenched his jaw.

^{Context #2}

physical action

A tight grasp or grip, especially with the hands or teeth.

Synonyms

clutch, grasp, grip

Examples of usage

She released her clench on the rope.
His teeth were in a clench as he struggled with the pain.

Translations

Translations of the word "clench" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apertar

🇮🇳 मुट्ठी बांधना

🇩🇪 ballen

🇮🇩 menggenggam

🇺🇦 стискати

🇵🇱 zaciskać

🇯🇵 握りしめる (nigirishimeru)

🇫🇷 serrer

🇪🇸 apretar

🇹🇷 sıkmak

🇰🇷 꽉 쥐다 (kkwak jwi-da)

🇸🇦 قبض

🇨🇿 sevřít

🇸🇰 zovrieť

🇨🇳 紧握 (jǐn wò)

🇸🇮 stisniti

🇮🇸 kreista

🇰🇿 жұмылдыру

🇬🇪 მჭიდრო

🇦🇿 sıxmaq

🇲🇽 apretar

Word origin

The word 'clench' originated from Middle English 'clenchen', which is derived from Old English 'clencan'. The Old English word meant 'to make fast, to seize', and it is related to the Old Norse word 'klengja', meaning 'to tangle'. Over time, 'clench' evolved to its current usage in English to refer to the action of closing one's fists tightly or gripping something firmly.